The global shift toward renewable energy has fueled what is now called the hydrogen economy, a world where hydrogen becomes a cornerstone of clean industrial processes. A major but less discussed beneficiary of this movement is hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), a chemical used in disinfection, semiconductors, pulp and paper, and textiles. As Singapore invests in green hydrogen under its national Green Plan 2030, the production and application of hydrogen peroxide is poised to evolve with more sustainable, decentralized, and low-emission methods.
 

What is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is a colorless liquid with strong oxidizing capabilities. Its decomposition into oxygen and water makes it a clean alternative to many conventional chemicals. Applications range from cleanroom electronics manufacturing to food safety and textile bleaching. According to BASF, H₂O₂ is increasingly valued for its role in environmentally friendly production chains.
 

Traditional Anthraquinone Process

Traditionally, hydrogen peroxide is produced through the anthraquinone process, which involves:

  1. Hydrogenating an anthraquinone compound with hydrogen gas.

  2. Reacting with oxygen to form H₂O₂.

  3. Solvent recovery and purification.

This process has high efficiency but also relies on fossil-derived hydrogen, making it less compatible with climate-neutral goals.
 

The Hydrogen Economy

The hydrogen economy, as outlined by the International Energy Agency (IEA), envisions a system where hydrogen, especially green hydrogen is a scalable, low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels.

Using green hydrogen as a feedstock in H₂O₂ production can eliminate reliance on fossil fuels.
 

Green Innovations in H₂O₂ Production

  1. Electrochemical Synthesis (2e⁻ ORR Method)
    As reviewed in ScienceDirect, scientists are developing electrochemical methods to produce H₂O₂ directly from water and oxygen using renewable-powered electricity. This method:

    • Requires no organic solvents

    • Reduces byproduct contamination

    • Enables modular, decentralized production
      This approach is ideal for space-limited regions like Singapore, allowing chemical generation near industrial hubs like Jurong Island.

  2. Photocatalytic and Biocatalytic Methods
    Emerging techniques use light-activated catalysts or enzymes to convert water and oxygen into H₂O₂ in a low-energy, waste-free process. While still in development, these processes could serve biomedical and pharmaceutical applications where purity is paramount.
     

Benefits for Singapore's Industrial Ecosystem

Singapore's Green Plan 2030 promotes net-zero carbon operations, and green chemical production aligns with national priorities.

  1. On-Demand, On-Site Production
    Localized H₂O₂ production can reduce hazardous transport risks and lower costs.

  2. Cleaner Inputs for Electronics
    Singapore’s microelectronics sector requires ultra-pure hydrogen peroxide for wafer cleaning. Green processes minimize residue, as noted by BASF.

  3. Integration with Circular Economy
    H₂O₂ decomposes into oxygen and water, contributing to Singapore's zero-waste ambitions (Green Plan).
     

Industry-Specific Use Cases in Singapore

Hydrogen peroxide is widely used across sectors:

Singapore’s industrial zones benefit from safe, scalable and green-grade H₂O₂ solutions, particularly with rising ESG requirements.
 

Supply & Import Landscape in Singapore

  1. Current Import Sources

    • Malaysia & Thailand: Bulk industrial grades.

    • Germany & South Korea: High-purity, pharma and semiconductor grades.

  2. Local Suppliers
    Tradeasia International distributes various grades of H₂O₂, including:

    • 35% & 50% concentrations

    • Food and electronic-grade options

    • Packaged in IBC tanks, drums, and jerry cans
      Singapore’s port infrastructure enables efficient import and regional re-export to ASEAN and India.
       

Market Trends and Outlook

As noted in multiple industry forecasts, including the DOE Hydrogen Office, hydrogen-based technologies are growing fast. The H₂O₂ market is projected to rise at 5.2% CAGR from 2024 to 2030.

Green hydrogen availability will:

Conclusion

Hydrogen peroxide may not be the first chemical that comes to mind when discussing green energy, but its production is closely tied to hydrogen sourcing. The rise of the hydrogen economy especially in countries like Singapore opens the door for cleaner, safer, and modular H₂O₂ production.

As new electrochemical methods mature, and green hydrogen becomes more affordable, businesses that integrate these technologies will gain a competitive and environmental edge. The future of peroxide production isn’t just industrial, it's sustainable, smart, and deeply linked to the hydrogen revolution.   If you are interested in our products for your specific business needs, please do not hesitate to contact us.

 

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