HYDROGEN-PEROXIDE FORMATION FROM THE PHOTO-OXIDATION OF FORMALDEHYDE AND ITS PRESENCE IN RAINWATER

The photooxidation of formaldehyde with sunlamps (Emax 3100 A) produces hydrogen peroxide at varying concentrations depending upon the amount of water vapor present. It is postulated that the variable production of H2O2 is a result of condensation on the reactor surface. Rainwater samples were also analyzed for H2O2. Summer rain in the Triangle area of North Carolina contained as much as 200 ppb (w/w) of H2O2. Rainwater collected in December contained much less H2O2, usally 2–8 ppb. The lower concentration found in the colder conditions is attributed to a decrease in photochemical activity. © 1979, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.