Photocatalytical oxidation of de-icing agents in aqueous solutions and aqueous extract of jet fuel

Water Sci Technol. 2001;44(5):1-6.

Abstract

Improper handling of jet fuel at abandoned military bases has resulted in heavy pollution of the soil and groundwater. Experimental research of photocatalytical oxidation (PCO) of jet fuel aqueous extract and aqueous solutions of de-icing agents was undertaken. The influence of different parameters - pH, concentration of substances to be oxidised, presence of inorganic admixtures, effect of OH. radical generators--on the PCO of solutions of de-icing agents and jet fuel aqueous extract was determined. The role of OH. radicals was found to be less important in determining the PCO rate. The PCO of organic pollutants was also investigated using a catalyst immobilised onto the surface of buoyant hollow glass microspheres. Attached titanium dioxide (TiO2) showed lower photocatalytical activity than when suspended in slurry, although it allows waters to be treated in simple shallow ponds without intensive stirring. The biodegradability of aqueous solutions of de-icing agents and jet fuel aqueous extract increased as PCO proceeded.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Coloring Agents / chemistry
  • Ethylene Glycol / chemistry*
  • Hydrocarbons / chemistry*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Photochemistry
  • Soil Pollutants / analysis*
  • Titanium / chemistry
  • Water Pollutants / analysis*

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Hydrocarbons
  • Soil Pollutants
  • Water Pollutants
  • titanium dioxide
  • Titanium
  • Ethylene Glycol