Decomposition of phorate in aqueous solution by photolytic ozonation

The degradation of phorate, a highly toxic organic phosphate pesticide, in aqueous solution by photolytic ozonation was studied under various experimental conditions. The rate constants of phorate decomposition and formation of various anions by photolytic ozonation were roughly independent of the solutionʹs pH value. The initial step of the photolytic decomposition of phorate is considered to be the breakage and subsequent oxidation of the P=S double bond on the phorate molecule, followed by isomerization and consequent oxidation of various organic intermediates.