A strong explosion occurred in the early hours of June 20, 2026, at a chemical products factory in Itupeva, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Despite the significant impact and initial apprehension among local residents, the incident resulted in no injuries and no fire, according to an official statement released by the Itupeva city government.
The event occurred during a chemical reaction involving hydrogen peroxide and soybean oil. Technical investigations indicated that concentrations above optimal levels in the process led to excessive pressure in one of the plant reactors. The equipment, a stainless steel tank equipped with safety systems, responded to the pressure increase by opening its relief valve, releasing accumulated gases and causing the explosion.
The company operates four interconnected reactors. Following the incident, two were immediately drained and emptied. A fourth reactor continued operating because the process could not be abruptly interrupted, and a controlled shutdown was scheduled. Firefighters were on site throughout the incident advising on safety and fire prevention procedures. Authorities confirmed the situation was brought under control without risk to the local population.
