Transformation of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) into Non-Hazardous Products by Electron Beam Treatment

This study is focused on investigating the influence of the parameters for dechlorination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) using electron beam. The dechlorination process was studied using concentrated solutions of polychlorinated biphenyls. 2-propanol with/without water, ethanol, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalin and tetrahydrofurane were used as solvents. The results of the research showed that the electron beam irradiation is an efficient dechlorination method in the presence of sodium hydroxide and 2-propanol. The presence of sodium hydroxide is mandatory for the efficiency of the dechlorination process. Water has a negative effect on the value of the degree of dechlorination. Higher temperatures (50-70°C) are needed to ensure a higher solubility of sodium hydroxide into 2-propanol.