ENVR 167 |
| Bisphenol A is a pollutant of growing concern. Recent studies have shown it has estrogenic properties and can cause serious adverse health effects. What sets bisphenol A (BPA) apart from other synthetic estrogenic compounds (xenoestrogens) is its production volume. Billions of pounds are used every year in polycarbonate and other plastics used in our daily lives. These materials constantly degrade, releasing BPA. It can be ingested directly or end up in waste streams where it is resistant to traditional wastewater remediation strategies. Hydrogen peroxide, activated by iron TAML (Tetra Amido Macrocyclic Ligand) catalysts, has shown potential to safely and effectively remove BPA from waste streams. Degradation of BPA is achieved in minutes at room temperature at pH 8 and 12. The treatment is effective over a range of BPA concentrations (0.004-4 mM) using minute catalyst concentrations (0.004-4 µM); H2O2 concentrations (.2-200 mM). Analysis of the reaction mixtures using HPLC and NMR spectroscopy reveals formation of simple organic compounds which are far less challenging to remediate. Hydrogen peroxide, catalyzed by iron TAML, can effectively degrade bisphenol A in water. |
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General Papers
6:00 PM-8:00 PM, Wednesday, 13 September 2006 Moscone Center -- Hall D, Poster
Division of Environmental Chemistry |