The 254-nm photodecomposition kinetics of aqueous oxalate species (C2O42-, HC2O4-, and H2C2O4) was investigated using low-pressure mercury lamps in a conventional merry-go-round (MGR) reactor.  Experiments were conducted with initial pH values ranging from 1 � 6 to systematically adjust the oxalate speciation among its three forms.  The total oxalate concentration ([ox]tot = [C2O42-] + [HC2O4-] + [H2C2O4]) was monitored using a calibrated HPLC method on periodic aliquots of the irradiated solutions.  Quantum yields for the 254-nm photodecomposition of each species (oxalate, bioxalate, and oxalic acid) were determined by applying a kinetic model to the laboratory results.  As part of this study, the molar absorptivity for each aqueous species was determined from 200 to 270 nm using UV-Vis spectroscopy.  The unique values for the quantum yield and molar absorptivity of each oxalate species are reported and discussed.

UV photodegradation kinetics of aqueous oxalate species

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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