Photochemistry of nitrite and nitrate in aqueous solution: a review

It has long been known that the photolysis of nitrite and nitrate solutions results in the formation of OH radicals. The mechanism of NO3− photolysis has been the subject of considerable controversy in the literature, however. This review summarizes the experimental work on NO2− and NO3− photolysis...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of photochemistry and photobiology. A, Chemistry. Chemistry., 1999-11, Vol.128 (1-3), p.1-13
Main Authors: Mack, John, Bolton, James R.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
AOT
Chemistry
Exact sciences and technology
General and physical chemistry
Hydroxyl radical
Nitrate ion
Nitrite ion
Peroxynitrite
Photochemistry
Photolysis
Physical chemistry of induced reactions (with radiations, particles and ultrasonics)
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Summary:It has long been known that the photolysis of nitrite and nitrate solutions results in the formation of OH radicals. The mechanism of NO3− photolysis has been the subject of considerable controversy in the literature, however. This review summarizes the experimental work on NO2− and NO3− photolysis in the context of recent advances in the understanding of the chemistry of the peroxynitrite anion (ONOO−) in biological experiments. ONOO− has been found to play a far more significant role in the overall reaction mechanism of NO3− photolysis than had previously been suspected. Research on NO2− and NO3− photolysis, as a pathway to the destruction of organic contaminants in natural waters, is summarized. The possible impact of NO2− and NO3− on Advanced Oxidation Technologies (AOTs), in which OH radicals are used to initiate the destruction of hazardous organic pollutants in drinking water and industrial waste streams, is explored.
ISSN:1010-6030
1873-2666
DOI:10.1016/S1010-6030(99)00155-0