Photolysis of anthracene and chrysene in aquatic systems

The photolysis of anthracene and chrysene in natural water system by UV and sunlight illumination was studied. In appearance, it is a first order reaction for photolysis of anthracene and chrysene in the lower concentration range 4.8 – 100 μg l−1. However, the photolysis mechanism could be a superposition of a series of second order reactions, related with the concentration of PAHs and various free radicals. Factors influencing the photolysis of anthracene and chrysene are discussed in detail. The photolysis rate constants and efficiencies of anthracene and chrysene increase with temperature and dissolved oxygen in water. Sediments of Huangpu River, Shanghai used as suspended solids in laboratory experiments reduced the photolysis efficiency.