Oxidation of benzene by the OH radical. A product and pulse radiolysis study in oxygenated aqueous solution

Abstract

Hydroxyl radicals [generated radiolytically in N2O/O2(4:1 v/v)-saturated aqueous solutions] have been reacted with benzene. The major product is phenol. At low dose rate (γ-radiolysis) it is formed in 53% yield with respect to the OH radical yield. This value increases to 93% in alkaline solution (pH 12.3). With deuteriated benzene it is reduced to 39%. In addition, more than fifteen different, ring-opened and fragment products are formed. A good material balance (based on primary OH radical yield and oxygen consumption) was obtained.