Superfund Research Program
Remediation and Health Effects
Project Leader: Ian M. Kennedy
Grant Number: P42ES004699
Funding Period: 1995-2010
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Final Progress Reports
Measurements and modeling of the pyrolysis and oxidation of trichloroethylene (TCE) have proceeded successfully. Results show that simple ceramic surfaces do not exhibit catalytic activity at temperatures up to 1000C, which is in agreement with a kinetic model of TCE oxidation. These results, and a thermodynamic analysis, suggest that a two-stage process may be useful for the treatment of chlorinated hydrocarbons. In the first stage, dechlorination can be achieved by abstraction of Cl in a reducing environment. This is followed by oxidation of the remaining non-chlorinated hydrocarbons. The chlorine in the system is sequestered as HCl, reducing the potential for forming TCDD. A chromium catalyst has been prepared and shows activity at temperatures as low as 400C. Measurements of chromium in a laminar diffusion flame were completed. Results showed the strong impact of chlorine on the speciation of chromium. Production of hexavalent chromium was strongly promoted by the presence of chlorine. However, the size distribution of chromium oxide particles was unaffected. Measurement of the absolute Raman intensity for hydrogen molecules in v = 1 was accomplished. Determination of the molecular constants allows for more accurate temperature determination of the hydrogen diffusion flame system as well as improving understanding of fundamental spectroscopic parameters.