Abstract
The degradation of naphthalene in aqueous solutions containing submerged calcium peroxide-based and calcium hydroxide pellets was examined by using UV–vis and IR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The observed products are one-ring and fused rings quinoid and aromatic compounds containing OH and C(H)O groups. Their formation is explained in terms of a Ca2+ cation–π interaction and a nucleophilic OH– attack at the aromatic ring ensued by a departure of H– anion. Such process has not been so far observed in aqueous phase. Its recognition may become a challenge for further studies on applications of alkaline substances in remediation of wastewater and soil contaminated with polycyclic hydrocarbons.
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