A Novel Method for Degradation of DDT in Contaminated Soil

A novel method for remediation of DDT contaminated soil based on advanced oxidation processes including reactions with hydroxyl radicals and ozone has been developed. On the basis of the conducted experiments the authors concluded that ozone did not degrade DDT in soil. Analysis of degradation products that were formed during exposure to a stream of gaseous ozone indicated that hydroxyl radicals might play a key role in degradation of this compound. In the modified fluidized bed reactor where hydroxyl radicals could be generated from ozone and water vapor, reduction of over 90% of DDT residue level has been achieved. Authors proposed a pathway of DDT degradation, under the influence of hydroxyl radicals and ozone. As a result of this research, an effective method for remediation of DDT-contaminated soil has been proposed.