Transformation of 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene Under Controlled Eh/pH Conditions.

Abstract : The presence of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in soil and groundwater can present serious environmental problems. The processes that control the mobility and transformation of TNT in these environments are not well understood. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of redox potential (Eh) and pH on the transformation of TNT. Soil components responsible for the transformation of TNT were also investigated. Laboratory investigations included testing at four different redox potentials and four pH levels. A 10:1 (water: soil) suspension spiked with 100 micro g of TNT/g, dry weight soil was used. The aqueous phase was sampled over a 2-week period for TNT and its transformation products. Soils were analyzed at completion of the 2-week incubation period. Results showed that redox potential and pH of the soil suspensions had a marked effect on TNT stability and transformation. The TNT was not stable under any Eh/pH conditions. TNT was least stable at any pH under highly reduced conditions. Results indicated that TNT persisted only under moderately reducing conditions and at lower pH levels. jg p30