Mechanism of Hydroquinone Oxidation by Hot Plasma Pulsed Radiation

The degradation of hydroquinone in interactions with OH• , HO2 • radicals, nitrous and peroxynitrous acids has been studied. Active species were generated using a corona electric discharge and pulsed radiation from hot plasma of a spark electric discharge. When interacting with hydroxyl radicals, hydroquinone breaks down into low molecular weight products. When interacting with species formed under the action of hot plasma radiation, chain oxidation of hydroquinone to benzoquinone occurs. This process is environmentally friendly and does not require the use of additional catalysts. Products formed under the action of radiation decompose over time.