Record Display for the EPA National Library Catalog

RECORD NUMBER: 84 OF 186

Main Title Investigation of Means for Controlled Self-Destruction of Pesticides.
Author Sween, Keith H. ; Fische, James R. ;
CORP Author Aerojet-General Corp., El Monte, Calif. Environmental Systems Div.
Year Published 1970
Report Number DI-14-12-596; EPA-WQO-16040-ELO; 06249; 16040-ELO-06/70
Stock Number PB-198 224
Additional Subjects ( DDT ; Decomposition) ; ( Pesticides ; Decomposition) ; ( Chlorine organic compounds ; Decomposition) ; Insecticides ; Zinc ; Coatings ; Soil chemistry ; Reduction(Chemistry) ; Catalysis ; pH ; Chemical removal(Water treatment) ; Aldrin ; Chlordane ; Dieldrin ; Endrin ; Heptachlor ; Ethane/bis(chlorophenyl) ; Toxaphene ; DDE pesticide
Holdings
Library Call Number Additional Info Location Last
Modified
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Status
NTIS  PB-198 224 Some EPA libraries have a fiche copy filed under the call number shown. 07/26/2022
Collation 131p
Abstract
Laboratory studies demonstrated the feasibility of controlled destruction of chlorinated pesticides such as DDT. The concept comprised (1) means to degrade DDT to a harmless form, and (2) methods to delay the reaction for given pest-control action. Chemical methods for degrading DDT were screened and reduction was selected as the most promising technique. Destruction of DDT, without forming DDE as a product, was demonstrated by mildly acidic reduction with zinc powder. The principal product is bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane, DDT with all three aliphatic chlorines removed; a material stated to be 'void of the neurotoxic effects of DDT.' Catalysis of the reaction resulted in complete destruction of DDT in 1 hr at 25C and conversion to bis(chlorophenyl)ethane in 4-8 hrs. Catalyzed aluminum or iron reduction of DDT produced tetra(p-chlorophenyl)tetrachlorobutane, reportedly lipoid insoluble. Reductive degradation of dieldrin, endrin, aldrin, chlordane, heptachlor, toxaphene, and selected polychlorinated biphenyls was also shown. A 90% destruction of DDT in laboratory soil was shown in 4 days by this technique. Degradation of DDT in water was demonstrated also, a 421 mg/l suspension being reduced to 1 ppm after 1 hr reaction at 75C. Reaction delay can be achieved with wax or silyl coatings which are slowly dissolved or eroded. Coatings were produced which stopped zinc-acid reaction. (Author)