Transformation of atrazine, bisphenol A and chlorendic acid by electrochemically produced oxidants using a lead dioxide electrode

Abstract

Artificial waters containing the xenobiotics atrazine, bisphenol A and chlorendic acid were treated by use of micro-disinfection apparatus, based on electrochemical ozone production. The design and working principle, as well as the applicability of the apparatus for the degradation of the target compounds is presented. The initial concentrations of the analytes were chosen to be in the mg L⁻¹ order. Degradation and transformation of the analytes was determined via LC-MS, UV/Vis, and IC. Bisphenol A was degraded completely within short ozonation times, but complete mineralization could not be achieved. Ion chromatography indicated formic and oxalic acid to be transformation products. For atrazine a degradation of 96% could be achieved within 3 h. Intermediate transformation products, like desethylatrazine, desisopropylatrazine, and desethyl-desisopropylatrazine, are formed and further degraded to formic acid and chloride. Chlorendic acid was degraded by up to 40% of the initial concentration. Analyses by UV/Vis and IC again showed formic acid, chloride, and also chlorate to be transformation products.