Photolysis kinetics of atmospheric pollutants can be greatly affected by the local environment. We have measured photolysis kinetics of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) pyrene and anthracene in several organic and aqueous solvents and in the presence of halides, and have investigated the role of molecular oxygen and PAH concentration on the kinetics. Organic matter reduces PAH photolysis kinetics by creating a non-polar environment, while halides either increase or  decrease photolysis kinetics depending on the PAH. Our results suggest that the fate of PAHs in condensed phases in the environment such as natural waters and aerosols could be significantly different than those predicted by aqueous-phase kinetics.

Effects of the physical environment on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon photolysis kinetics in solution

248th National Meeting (2014)

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