Radiation oxidation of phenol in aerated aqueous solutions

The irradiation of phenol-containing waters in a model irradiation facility with continuous aeration showed that the minimum dose required for the radiolysis of phenol does not increase even for doses exceeding 1 kGy. Certain factors were experimentally investigated which influence the course of phenol radiolysis in the given mode of irradiation. The catalytic effect was found of iron salts on raising the efficiency of phenol radiolysis and the retardation effect of aromatics. The presence of iron salts doubly reduced the dose requirement on phenol radiolysis and this effect is technologically applicable for accelerating the cleaning process. (author)