| Many nitroaromatic compounds (NACs) are considered toxic and potential carcinogens. The purpose of this study was to develop an integrated reductive/oxidative process for treating NAC contaminated waters. The process consists of the combination of zero-valent manganese or iron and a hydroxyl radical based treatment technique. Corrosion promoters were added to the contaminated water to minimize passivation of the metallic species. Water contaminated with 2,4-dinitrotoluen (DNT) was treated with the integrated process using a recirculating batch reactor. It was demonstrated that addition of corrosion promoters to the contaminated water enhanced the rate of reaction of 2,4-DNT with zero-valent iron or manganese. Results showed that iron provided greater reduction of 2,4-DNT than manganese. Chemical oxidation was used to mineralize the reduction products. The degree of mineralization was measured analyzing the samples for total organic carbon and nitrates. A proposed reaction and corrosion mechanisms and rate expressions were developed during the course of the study. |
