Autoxidation of Ethers In the presence of atmospheric oxygen, ethers slowly oxidize to hydroperoxides and dialkyl peroxides. Both are highly explosive. ·Precautions: >Do not distill to dryness. >Store in full bottles with tight caps. => Chapter 14 20Chapter 14 20 Autoxidation of Ethers • In the presence of atmospheric oxygen, ethers slowly oxidize to hydroperoxides and dialkyl peroxides. • Both are highly explosive. • Precautions: ➢Do not distill to dryness. ➢Store in full bottles with tight caps. =>