Fenton reagent advanced oxidation of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons in water

Aqueous oxidation of three polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, fluorene, phenanthrene and acenaphthene with the combination of hydrogen peroxide and ferrous ion, Fenton reagent, has been studied. The effect of variables such as concentration of both reactants, pH and presence of bicarbonate ion and humic substances has been investigated. Products resulting from oxidation have also been identified. From experimental results and kinetic data determined the process is confirmed as an advanced oxidation involving the generation of hydroxyl radicals. Oxidation rates are even higher than those from other advanced oxidation systems involving ozone, UV radiation and hydrogen peroxide. Reactivity is in the following decreasing order: Phenanthrene > Fluorene > Acenaphthene.