Photochemistry of nitrite and nitrate in aqueous solution: a review

• Published in: Journal of photochemistry and photobiology. A, Chemistry. Vol. 128; no. 1-3; pp. 1 - 13
• Main Authors: Mack, John, Bolton, James R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Lausanne Elsevier B.V 01.11.1999; Elsevier Science
• Subjects: AOT; Chemistry; Exact sciences and technology; General and physical chemistry; Hydroxyl radical; Nitrate ion; Nitrite ion; Peroxynitrite; Photochemistry; Photolysis; Physical chemistry of induced reactions (with radiations, particles and ultrasonics); Peroxynitrite; Photolysis; Nitrate ion; AOT; Hydroxyl radical; Nitrite ion; Reaction intermediate; Inorganic anion; Near ultraviolet radiation; Inorganic free radical; Nitrites; Nitrates; Review; Kinetics; Aqueous solution
• ISSN: 1010-6030; 1873-2666
• DOI: 10.1016/S1010-6030(99)00155-0

It has long been known that the photolysis of nitrite and nitrate solutions results in the formation of OH radicals. The mechanism of NO3− photolysis has been the subject of considerable controversy in the literature, however. This review summarizes the experimental work on NO2− and NO3− photolysis in the context of recent advances in the understanding of the chemistry of the peroxynitrite anion (ONOO−) in biological experiments. ONOO− has been found to play a far more significant role in the overall reaction mechanism of NO3− photolysis than had previously been suspected. Research on NO2− and NO3− photolysis, as a pathway to the destruction of organic contaminants in natural waters, is summarized. The possible impact of NO2− and NO3− on Advanced Oxidation Technologies (AOTs), in which OH radicals are used to initiate the destruction of hazardous organic pollutants in drinking water and industrial waste streams, is explored.