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Formation of toxic products from a No. 2 fuel oil by photooxidation

Journal Article · · Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/es60128a002· OSTI ID:7213424
Oxygenated compounds toxic to baker's yeast and relatively soluble in water were formed upon simulated environmental ultraviolet irradiation of a No. 2 fuel oil. Toxicity reached a maximum within 24 h and appeared to be principally due to reactive peroxides; addition of a mild reducing agent (thiacyclohexane) eliminated a large percentage of the light-induced toxicity. On continued irradiation, other classes of toxic compounds were produced. Carbonyl compounds (largely derived from benzylic hydrocarbons) and phenols increased at approximately linear rates for at least seven days. The phenolic compounds present in the original oil were largely destroyed and replaced by higher-boiling phenols (including hydroxyl-substituted aryl ketones). Quinones were not detected. The acids present included some with phenolic substituents.
Research Organization:
Stroud Water Research Center, Avondale, PA
OSTI ID:
7213424
Journal Information:
Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Sci. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 11:5; ISSN ESTHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English