The Effects of Ultraviolet Light on TNT in Aqueous Solutions
Abstract
The effect of ultraviolet light on aqueous trinitrotoluene solutions has been studied in open and closed systems. Irradiation of saturated aqueous solutions of TNT in open containers for 24 hours caused a visible change in the appearance of the solutions and a drastic drop of TNT concentration from 100 ppm to 0.16 ppm. Samples pulled at intervals indicated that the TNT concentration consistently decreased with time. Photochemical conversion products of TNT were evident in samples take after 3, 6, 24 hours of irradiation. Aqueous solutions of 1, 3, 5 (c 14) TNT were irradiated in closed vessels for periods of 24, 72, 144 and 312 hours. The activity of the irradiated TNT decreased with increased time of exposure. Labeled CO2 was found to be one of the photolytic products indicating that ring cleavage occurred. Unidentified volatile products of the reaction were trapped by activated charcoal. Most of the photochemically converted compounds remaining in solution were found to be polar and unextractable with benzene or acetone.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 15, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADB008175
Entities
People
- Catherine C. Andrews
- Jerald L. Osmon