Benjamin Ward Richardson

In 1858, an English physician named Benjamin Ward Richardson published a paper in the esteemed medical journal THE LANCET. In his publications, Richardson explored the potential uses of hydrogen peroxide, highlighting its ability to eliminate foul odours and proposing its application as a disinfectant.

Richardson’s work marked the beginning of hydrogen peroxide’s journey as a versatile chemical compound. Over the years, hydrogen peroxide emerged as a powerful oxidising agent with a multitude of applications. By the mid-1800s, it had already become a commercial product, finding use in diverse applications such as being used as a non-polluting bleaching agent, and as a disinfectant in food processing. During the World Wars, the product was employed as a surface disinfectant, a water sanitiser and as a propellant for rockets and torpedoes.

Hydrogen peroxide has come a long way since its discovery, evolving into a versatile compound with a multitude of applications. From its humble beginnings as “oxygenated water” to advanced formulations, hydrogen peroxide continues to contribute to numerous industries, improving hygiene, safety, and sustainability along the way.