What is chemical expiration?

An important factor in chemical storage and shelf life is chemical expiration. Chemical expiration refers to the date after which a chemical substance may no longer be suitable for its intended use due to changes in its properties, efficacy, or safety. This expiration date is determined based on various factors, including the stability of the chemical, the conditions under which it is stored, and any regulatory requirements.

Common examples of products with chemical expiration dates include pharmaceuticals, laboratory reagents, cosmetics, food additives, and certain industrial chemicals. Manufacturers typically conduct stability studies to determine the shelf life of these products under various storage conditions and provide expiration dates accordingly. Adhering to a chemical expiration date is paramount. Using chemicals past their expiration dates can result in unreliable outcomes, potential safety hazards, and regulatory non-compliance. Proper inventory management and disposal of expired chemicals are essential practices in maintaining quality and safety in various industries.

What are proper chemical storage procedures?

Proper chemical storage and shelf life procedures ensure the safety of personnel, protect the environment, and maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the chemicals. Some key procedures for proper chemical storage include:

1. Chemical Segregation:

• Store chemicals by compatibility to prevent reactions between incompatible substances. Common chemical incompatibilities include acids and bases, oxidizers and flammable materials, and certain reactive metals.
• Use separate storage areas or cabinets for different chemical classes to minimize the risk of accidental mixing.

2. Labeling:

• Ensure all chemical containers are properly labeled with the chemical’s name, hazard symbols, concentration, and any relevant safety information.
• Include the date of receipt and, if applicable, the date of opening or preparation on the label.
• Replace damaged or illegible labels promptly.

3. Storage Cabinets and Containers:

• Use appropriate chemical storage cabinets, containers, or shelving designed for the specific chemicals being stored.
• Store chemicals in containers made of compatible materials. For example, use glass containers for strong acids and bases and plastic containers for most other chemicals.
• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent leakage or evaporation.
• Use secondary containment trays or bins to catch spills and provide an additional layer of protection.

4. Ventilation:

• Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas to disperse any fumes or vapors that may be released from chemicals.
• Use fume hoods or exhaust systems when working with volatile or toxic chemicals.

5. Temperature Control:

• Store chemicals at appropriate temperatures, following manufacturer recommendations. Some chemicals require refrigeration or freezing, while others should be stored at room temperature.
• Avoid exposing chemicals to extreme temperature fluctuations.

6. Light Protection: Shield light-sensitive chemicals from direct exposure to light by storing them in opaque or tinted containers or in dark storage areas.

7. Fire Safety:

• Store flammable chemicals in approved flammable storage cabinets or containers. Ensure compliance with local fire safety regulations.
• Keep flammable chemicals away from ignition sources, such as open flames, heat sources, or electrical equipment.

8. Corrosive Storage:

• Store corrosive chemicals in acid-resistant or chemical-resistant cabinets or containers.
• Use appropriate spill containment measures, such as acid-resistant spill trays, to capture leaks.

9. Waste Management: Properly label and store chemical waste in designated containers and areas. Follow regulations for hazardous waste disposal.

10. Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of chemical storage areas to check for  leaks, damaged containers, or signs of deterioration.

11. Documentation: Maintain accurate records of chemical inventory, including safety data sheets (SDS) and any incidents or spills.

What factors affect chemical lifespan?

Chemical storage and shelf life management is one factor of many that affect chemical lifespan. Other factors include the type of chemical and environmental conditions. 

• Chemical Composition: The inherent stability of the chemical itself plays a significant role in determining its shelf life. Some chemicals are inherently stable and can have long shelf lives, while others are more prone to degradation.
• Chemical Reactivity: Chemicals that are highly reactive are more likely to undergo chemical reactions that lead to degradation. Reactive chemicals may be more sensitive to factors like temperature, light, or moisture.
• Temperature: Temperature can have a profound impact on the stability of chemicals. Elevated temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions, leading to degradation. Conversely, storing chemicals at lower temperatures can help prolong their shelf life.
• Humidity: Moisture can promote chemical reactions, particularly in hygroscopic chemicals that readily absorb water. High humidity levels can lead to degradation in some chemicals.
• Light Exposure: Exposure to light, especially ultraviolet (UV) radiation, can lead to the degradation of certain chemicals. This is particularly relevant for chemicals in transparent or translucent containers.
• Oxygen Exposure: Some chemicals are sensitive to oxygen, which can cause oxidation reactions leading to degradation. Proper sealing of containers can help mitigate this factor.
• pH Levels: The acidity or alkalinity (pH) of the environment in which a chemical is stored can affect its stability. Some chemicals are sensitive to pH changes and may degrade in acidic or alkaline conditions.
• Packaging Material: The type of container or packaging material used can impact the lifespan of chemicals. Certain chemicals may interact with or permeate through specific types of containers, affecting their stability. Browse ILT’s catalog of Chemical Packaging products here.
• Contaminants: The presence of impurities or contaminants in the chemical itself can contribute to degradation. Proper storage and handling practices are essential to prevent contamination.
• Exposure to Air: Exposure to air can cause oxidation reactions in some chemicals. Proper sealing of containers and minimizing air exposure during handling can help mitigate this factor.
• Chemical Interactions: Some chemicals can interact with one another, leading to degradation or the formation of new compounds. Incompatibility between chemicals should be considered in storage practices.
• Manufacturing and Storage Conditions: The conditions under which a chemical is manufactured, packaged, and stored by the manufacturer can impact its shelf life. Proper quality control and adherence to recommended storage conditions are essential.

Read more about chemical packaging and the seals and septa industry on our blog page or learn more about ILT, the world leader in manufacturing seals and septa here.