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Base-Induced 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene Transformation, Titration Studies

The removal of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) from solution by the addition of a base, sodium hydroxide (NaOH), was examined. TNT solutions were titrated to determine the required hydroxide concentration for the removal of TNT from solutions to proceed. It was found that the pH required for removal of...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Hansen, Lance D, Ringelberg, David D, Felt, Deborah R, Davis, Jeffrey D
Format: Report
Language:English
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Summary:The removal of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) from solution by the addition of a base, sodium hydroxide (NaOH), was examined. TNT solutions were titrated to determine the required hydroxide concentration for the removal of TNT from solutions to proceed. It was found that the pH required for removal of half the TNT was 10.9 +/- 0.18 with an empirical coefficient of 0.16 +/- 0.11. A parametric analysis was performed, and the model was determined not to be sensitive with respect to the empirical coefficient. This study found a near-instant removal of TNT when the pH of the solution was increased above 11. Several unidentified compounds were formed sequentially. The sequence of these unidentified compounds appears to indicate an increase in their polarity. The addition of NaOH resulted in a reduction in the acute toxicity of TNT solutions based on Microtox(registered) tests with Vibrio fischeri. Prepared cooperation with Applied Research Associates, Inc., Vicksburg, Ms.