Oxidation of phenols by ozone

The reactions of ozone with phenol were investigated to determine the rate at which this compound is destroyed by ozone and the exact products of ozonolysis of phenol and their behavior under continued application of ozone. Virtually complete removal of phenol and its aromatic degradation products was realized when 4 to 6 moles of ozone had been consumed for each nole of phenol originally present. At this point, approximately one-third of the initial organic carbon remained and a 70 to 80 percent reduction in COD was achieved. Concentrations of oxalic acid is less than 0.5 mg/l. Subsequent dilution on discharge of this effluent should reduce the concentration of the various components in the receiving body of water to tolerable levels. (ND)