By-products of the thermal
Abstract
The destruction of toxic chemicals by thermal treatment is a highly effective method for remediation of sites contaminated with hazardous substances. Researchers in the Louisiana State University Superfund Research Program have determined that many pollutants are formed by interactions with transition metals associated with environmental particulate matter. The environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFR), is formed when a molecule chemisorbs on a metal and electron transfer occurs to reduce the metal and form EPFR. The atmospheric ultrafine and fine particles are largely formed by combustion sources as primary particulate emissions or as secondary particles formed by atmospheric chemical reactions of combustion emissions of sulfur and nitrogen oxides. The ultrafine particles are capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and then into the circulatory system, and may translocate to other organs. The organics, metals, and particles may act as a single, integrated system initiating oxidative stress in exposed individuals eventually leading to adverse health effects.