The radiation-induced oxidation of ethane in aqueous solution

Abstract

Aqueous solutions of ethane–oxygen mixtures have been irradiated with γ-rays, at room temperature; the major products were acetaldehyde, ethanol, and ethyl hydroperoxide, the last being formed at pH 5·5 and 10 but not at pH 1·2. Photolysis of hydrogen peroxide solutions containing dissolved ethane and oxygen resulted in the formation of ethanol and acetaldehyde only. The results have been interpreted in terms of reactions of ethyl peroxy radicals.