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Presents a study which described the catalytic system for the deep oxidation of toxic organics to carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and water in aqueous medium using dioxygen as the oxidant. Classes of organic compounds examined; Details on the oxidation of aromatics, nitro and halo organics; Information on the oxidation of organophosphorus and sulfur compounds; Conclusions.

The degradation of plastic waste can be facilitated by a process in which polymers react with nitrogen oxides and dioxygen under relatively mild conditions. Polystyrene generates a mixture of benzoic and nitrobenzoic acids. Both high- and low-density polyethylene produce mixtures of short-chain α,ω-diacids (including adipic acid) in good yields. A mixture of acids is also formed from nylon-6,6. Other polymers that are degraded to oligomeric materials include polypropylene, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyacrylic acid., (© 1998 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH, Weinheim, Fed. Rep. of Germany.)