Synthesis and properties of new initiating systems formed from commercially available ketones, glycols, and hydrogen peroxide (60%) are presented. In preparation of free radical initiators methyl ethyl ketone, which was oxidized by hydrogen peroxide, was used. Reaction was carried out in etanodiol or 1,4-butanodiol as diluent. The obtained initiators with cobalt octoate as a promotor were applied for crosslinking of the commercially available unsaturated polyester resin. Properties of the resin were compared with those obtained while it was hardened by the typical curing system containing methyl ethyl ketone hydroperoxide and cobalt octoate. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.