On the radiochemical decomposition of p-chlorophenol dissolved in water or adsorbed on activated charcoal

The radiochemical decomposition of p-chlorophenol dissolved in water or adsorbed on activated charcoal was investigated. Gamma irradiation of aqueous solutions of p-chlorophenol (initial concentration: 500 ppm) causes dechlorination and the formation of a brown substance, which is probably humic acid or a derivative of it. However, in the considered range of loading (between 19 and 45 mg of p-chlorophenol/g dry charcoal) p-chlorophenol adsorbed on activated charcoal is decomposed by gamma radiation-induced oxidation to chloride, water and carbon dioxide. Together with the gamma dose and the broading height texture and surface chemistry of the activated charcoal influence the decomposition rates. (author)