Photocatalytical oxidation of de-icing agents in aqueous solutions and aqueous extract of jet fuel

Improper handling of jet fuel at abandoned military bases has resulted in h eavy pollution of the soil and groundwater. Experimental research of photoc atalytical oxidation (PCO) of jet fuel aqueous extract and aqueous solution s of de-Icing agents was undertaken. The influence of different parameters -pH, concentration of substances to be oxidised, presence of inorganic admi xtures, effect of OH. radical generators - on the PCO of solutions of de-ic ing agents and jet fuel aqueous extract was determined. The role of OH. rad icals was found to be less important in determining the PCO rate. The PCO o f organic pollutants was also investigated using a catalyst immobilised ont o the surface of buoyant hollow glass microspheres. Attached titanium dioxi de (TiO2) showed lower photocatalytical activity than when suspended in slu rry, although it allows waters to be treated in simple shallow ponds withou t intensive stirring. The biodegradability of aqueous solutions of de-icing agents and jet fuel aqueous extract increased as PCO proceeded.