Oxidation of several chlorophenolic derivatives by UV irradiation and hydroxyl radicals

The oxidation of some chlorophenols: 4-chlorophenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, 2,3,4,6-tetrachlorophenol, tetrachlorocatechol (3,4,5,6-tetrachloro-2-hydroxy phenol) and 4-chloroguaiacol (4-chloro-2-methoxy phenol) has been studied via single photodecomposition produced by polychromatic UV irradiation, oxidation by hydroxyl radicals generated by Fenton's reagent (hydrogen peroxide plus ferrous ions), and degradation by hydroxyl radicals produced by combinations of UV irradiation plus hydrogen peroxide, and UV irradiation plus hydrogen peroxide and ferrous ions (photo-Fenton system). These organics have been selected as models of chloro-phenolic derivative pollutants present in wastewaters and groundwaters. The degradation levels obtained in each process are reported. The quantum yields in the single photodecomposition reaction and the rate constants between the chlorophenols and the hydroxyl radicals in the reaction with Fenton's reagent are determined. Finally, the additional contributions to the photodecomposition promoted by the radical reaction in the combined UV/H2O2 and photo-Fenton systems are also evaluated. © 2001 Society of Chemical Industry