Photochemistry of water-soluble quinones. Production of the hydroxyl radical, singlet oxygen and the superoxide ion

Reactive oxygen species play key roles in the nitrite formation by the inorganic nitrate photolysis in the presence of urban water-soluble organic carbon

Inorganic nitrates were considered to be a potential source of atmospheric NO2-/HONO during the daytime. To better evaluate the contribution of nitrate photochemistry on NO2-/HONO formation, the photolysis of nitrates in the real atmospheric environment needs to be further explored. Here, the NO2- generation by the photolysis of inorganic nitrates in the presence of total water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) was quantified. The physicochemical properties of WSOC were measured to understand the underlying mechanism for the photolysis of inorganic nitrates with WSOC. WSOC enhanced or suppressed the photochemical conversion of nitrates to NO2-, with the quantum yield of NO2- (ΦNO2-) varying from (0.07 ± 0.02)% to (3.11 ± 0.04)% that depended on the light absorption properties of WSOC. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated from WSOC, including O2-/HO2 and OH, played a dual role in the NO2- formation. Light-absorbing substances in WSOC, such as N-containing and carbonyl aromatics, produced O2-/HO2 that enhanced the secondary conversion of NO2 to NO2-. On the other hand, OH deriving from the WSOC photochemistry inhibited the nitrate photodegradation and the NO2- formation. HONO source strength by the aqueous photolysis of nitrates with WSOC was estimated to be lower than 100 ppt h-1, which may partly contribute to the atmospheric HONO source in some cases.

Kinetic modelling of UVC and UVC/H2O2 oxidation of an aqueous mixture of antibiotics in a completely mixed batch photoreactor

The removal kinetics of an aqueous mixture of thirteen antibiotics (i.e., ampicillin, cefuroxime, ciprofloxacin, flumequine, metronidazole, ofloxacin, oxytetracycline, sulfadimethoxine, sulfamethoxazole, sulfamethazine, tetracycline, trimethoprim and tylosin) by batch UVC and UVC/H2O2 processes has been modeled in this work. First, molar absorption coefficients (ε), direct quantum yields (Φ) and the rate constants of the reaction of antibiotics with hydroxyl radical (kHO•) (model inputs) were determined for each antibiotic and compared with literature data. The values of these parameters range from 0.3 to 21.8 mM-1 cm-1 for ε, < 0.01 to 67.8 mmol·E-1 for Φ and 3.8 × 109 to 1.7 × 1010 M-1 s-1 for kHO•. Second, a regression model was developed to compute the rate constants of the reactions of the antibiotics with singlet oxygen (k1O₂) from experimental data obtained in batch UVC experiments treating a mixture of the antibiotics. k1O₂ values in the 1-50 × 106 M-1 s-1 range were obtained for the antibiotics studied. Finally, a semi-empirical kinetic model comprising a set of ordinary differential equations was solved to simulate the evolution of the residual concentration of antibiotics and hydrogen peroxide (model outputs) in a completely mixed batch photoreactor. Model predictions were reasonably consistent with the experimental data. The kinetic model developed might be combined with computational fluid dynamics to predict process performance and energy consumption in UVC and UVC/H2O2 applications at full scale.

Aqueous-Phase Photoreactions of Mixed Aromatic Carbonyl Photosensitizers Yield More Oxygenated, Oxidized, and less Light-Absorbing Secondary Organic Aerosol (SOA) than Single Systems

Aromatic carbonyls have been mainly probed as photosensitizers for aqueous secondary organic aerosol (aqSOA) and light-absorbing organic aerosol (i.e., brown carbon or BrC) formation, but due to their organic nature, they can also undergo oxidation to form aqSOA and BrC. However, photochemical transformations of aromatic carbonyl photosensitizers, particularly in multicomponent systems, are understudied. This study explored aqSOA formation from the irradiation of aromatic carbonyl photosensitizers in mixed and single systems under cloud/fog conditions. Mixed systems consisting of phenolic carbonyls only (VL + ActSyr + SyrAld: vanillin [VL] + acetosyringone [ActSyr] + syringaldehyde [SyrAld]) and another composed of both nonphenolic and phenolic carbonyls (DMB + ActSyr + SyrAld: 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde [DMB], a nonphenolic carbonyl, + ActSyr + SyrAld) were compared to single systems of VL (VL*) and DMB (DMB*), respectively. In mixed systems, the shorter lifetimes of VL and DMB indicate their diminished capacity to trigger the oxidation of other organic compounds (e.g., guaiacol [GUA], a noncarbonyl phenol). In contrast to the slow decay and minimal photoenhancement for DMB*, the rapid photodegradation and significant photoenhancement for VL* indicate efficient direct photosensitized oxidation (i.e., self-photosensitization). Relative to single systems, the increased oxidant availability promoted functionalization in VL + ActSyr + SyrAld and accelerated the conversion of early generation aqSOA in DMB + ActSyr + SyrAld. Moreover, the increased availability of oxidizable substrates countered by stronger oxidative capacity limited the contribution of mixed systems to aqSOA light absorption. This suggests a weaker radiative effect of BrC from mixed photosensitizer systems than BrC from single photosensitizer systems. Furthermore, more oxygenated and oxidized aqSOA was observed with increasing complexity of the reaction systems (e.g., VL* < VL + ActSyr + SyrAld < VL + ActSyr + SyrAld + GUA). This work offers new insights into aqSOA formation by emphasizing the dual role of organic photosensitizers as oxidant sources and oxidizable substrates.

Phototransformation of halobenzoquinones in aqueous solution under the simulate sunlight: Kinetics, mechanism and products

Halobenzoquinones (HBQs) are a novel family of unregulated disinfection byproducts (DBPs). Little is known about their phototransformation activities in natural water. Here, five HBQs with various halogenated substituent types, numbers, and structures positions were selected to investigate the kinetics of degradation in aqueous solutions at various concentrations and in the presence of common environmental variables (Cl-, NO2-, and humic acid). The results indicated that dichloride and dibromo-substituted HBQs were photolyzed, whereas tetrachloro-substituted HBQs showed little degradation. The photolysis rate constant (k) of HBQs decreased with increasing initial concentration. The presence of NO2- and Cl- promoted the degradation of HBQs mainly through the formation of hydroxyl radical (•OH), which were confirmed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). In contrast, humic acid played a negative role on HBQs transformation due to the adsorption and quenching reactions. Possible conversion pathways for HBQs were proposed based on the identification of two major photodegradation products, hydroxylated HBQs and halogenated-benzenetriol, as well as reactive free radicals. This study provided meaningful insights into the environmental fates and risk assessments of HBQs in natural aquatic system.

Insights into the Enhanced Photogeneration of Hydroxyl Radicals from Chlorinated Dissolved Organic Matter

Free available chlorine has been and is being applied in global water treatment and readily reacts with dissolved organic matter (DOM) in aquatic environments, leading to the formation of chlorinated products. Chlorination enhances the photoreactivity of DOM, but the influence of chlorinated compounds on the photogeneration of hydroxyl radicals (•OH) has remained unexplored. In this study, a range of chlorinated carboxylate-substituted phenolic model compounds were employed to assess their •OH photogeneration capabilities. These compounds demonstrated a substantial capacity for •OH production, exhibiting quantum yields of 0.1-5.9 × 10-3 through direct photolysis under 305 nm and 0.2-9.5 × 10-3 through a triplet sensitizer (4-benzoylbenzoic acid)-inducing reaction under 365 nm LED irradiation. Moreover, the chlorinated compounds exhibited higher light absorption and •OH quantum yields compared to those of their unchlorinated counterparts. The •OH photogeneration capacity of these compounds exhibited a positive correlation with their triplet state one-electron oxidation potentials. Molecular-level compositional analysis revealed that aromatic structures rich in hydroxyl and carboxyl groups (e.g., O/C > 0.5 with H/C < 1.5) within DOM serve as crucial sources of •OH, and chlorination of these compounds significantly enhances their capacity to generate •OH upon irradiation. This study provides novel insights into the enhanced photogeneration of •OH from chlorinated DOM, which is helpful for understanding the fate of trace pollutants in chlorinated waters.

Chitosan-sodium percarbonate-based hydrogels with sustained oxygen release potential stimulated angiogenesis and accelerated wound healing

The prolonged hypoxic conditions hinder chronic wounds from healing and lead to severe conditions such as delayed re-epithelialization and enhanced risk of infection. Multifunctional wound dressings are highly required to address the challenges of chronic wounds. Herein, we report polyurethane-coated sodium per carbonate-loaded chitosan hydrogel (CSPUO2 ) as a multifunctional dressing. The hydrogels (Control, CSPU, and CSPUO2 ) were prepared by freeze gelation method and the developed hydrogels showed high porosity, good absorption capacity, and adequate biodegradability. The release of oxygen from the CSPUO2 hydrogel was confirmed by the increase in pH and a sustained oxygen release was observed over the period of 21 days, due to polyurethane (CSPU) coating. The CSPUO2 hydrogel exhibited around 2-fold increased angiogenic potential in CAM assay when compared with Control and CSPU dressing. CSPUO2 also showed good level of antibacterial efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus. In a full-thickness rat wound model, CSPUO2 hydrogel considerably accelerated wound healing with exceptional re-epithelialization granulation tissue formation less inflammatory cells and improved skin architecture highlighting the tremendous therapeutic potential of this hydrogel when compared with control and CSPU to treat chronic diabetic and burn wounds.

Reactive Oxygen Species and Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter Drive the Aquatic Photochemical Pathways and Photoproducts of 6PPD-quinone under Simulated High-Latitude Conditions

The photochemical degradation pathways of 6PPD-quinone (6PPDQ, 6PPD-Q), a toxic transformation product of the tire antiozonant 6PPD, were determined under simulated sunlight conditions typical of high-latitude surface waters. Direct photochemical degradation resulted in 6PPDQ half-lives ranging from 17.5 h at 20 °C to no observable degradation over 48 h at 4 °C. Sensitization of excited triplet-state pathways using Cs+ and Ar purging demonstrated that 6PPDQ does not decompose significantly from a triplet state relative to a singlet state. However, assessment of processes involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) quenchers and sensitizers indicated that singlet oxygen and hydroxyl radical do significantly contribute to the degradation of 6PPDQ. Investigation of these processes in natural lake waters indicated no difference in attenuation rates for direct photochemical processes at 20 °C. This suggests that direct photochemical degradation will dominate in warm waters, while indirect photochemical pathways will dominate in cold waters, involving ROS mediated by chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM). Overall, the aquatic photodegradation rate of 6PPDQ will be strongly influenced by the compounding effects of environmental factors such as light screening and temperature on both direct and indirect photochemical processes. Transformation products were identified via UHPLC-Orbitrap mass spectrometry, revealing four major processes: (1) oxidation and cleavage of the quinone ring in the presence of ROS, (2) dealkylation, (3) rearrangement, and (4) deamination. These data indicate that 6PPDQ can photodegrade in cool, sunlit waters under the appropriate conditions: t1/2 = 17.4 h tono observable decrease (direct); t1/2 = 5.2-11.2 h (indirect, CDOM).

Photodegradation of free estrogens driven by UV light: Effects of operation mode and water matrix

Estrogens are endocrine disrupting chemicals that have been frequently detected in diverse water matrices (e.g. surface water, wastewater and drinking water) and caused a series of health risks. This study was aimed at investigating the photochemical degradation of free estrogens estrone (E1), 17β-estradiol (E2), estriol (E3), and 17α-ethyl estradiol (EE2) upon the monochromatic irradiation (253.7 nm). Concerning the practical installation of photolysis treatment, exposing the impacts of photoreactor operation mode (stationary or up-flow) and the water matrix (ultrapure water or natural surface water) on the photolytic behaviour of estrogens was of high importance. The pseudo-first-order rate constants showed that E1 was the most susceptible to UV radiation among chosen estrogens due to its high molar absorption coefficient of 402.4 M^-1 cm^-1 and quantum yield of 0.065 mol E^-1 at λ = 253.7 nm. Moreover, the up-flow mode and the surface water matrix collected from a lake in Regent's Park (London) were found to favour the photodegradation of estrogens due to the introduction of more dissolved oxygens and promotion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. These findings may shed light on the photochemical behaviour of estrogens in some specific scenarios.

Assessing the source of the photochemical formation of hydroxylating species from dissolved organic matter using model sensitizers

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is ubiquitous in natural waters and can facilitate the chemical transformation of many contaminants through the photochemical production of reactive intermediates, such as singlet oxygen (¹O₂), excited triplet state DOM (³DOM*), and hydroxylating species (˙OH and other intermediates of similar reaction chemistry). The formation mechanism of most reactive intermediates is well understood, but this is not the case for the formation of hydroxylating species from DOM. To investigate this chemistry, DOM model sensitizers were irradiated with two different probe compounds (benzene and benzoic acid) at two irradiation wavelengths (254 and 320 nm). The ability of DOM model sensitizers to hydroxylate these arene probes was assessed by measuring rates of formation of the hydroxylated probe compounds (phenol and salicylic acid). Multiple classes of model sensitizers were tested, including quinones, hydroxybenzoic acids, aromatic ketones, and other triplet forming species. Of these classes of model sensitizers, only quinones and hydroxybenzoic acids had a hydroxylating capacity. Methanol quenching experiments were used to assess the reactivity of hydroxylating species. These results have several implications for the systems tested. First, they suggest that the hydroxylating intermediate produced from hydroxybenzoic acid photolysis may not be hydroxyl radical, but a different hydroxylating species. Also, these data prompted investigation of whether quinone photoproducts have a hydroxylating capacity. These results confirm that hydroxybenzoic acids and quinones are important to the photochemical production of hydroxylating species from DOM, but the mechanism by which this occurs for these classes of sensitizers is still elusive.

Photopharmacological Applications for Cherenkov Radiation Generated by Clinically Used Radionuclides

Translational photopharmacological applications are limited through irradiation by light showing wavelengths within the bio-optical window. To achieve sufficient tissue penetration, using wavelengths >500 nm is mandatory. Nevertheless, the majority of photopharmacological compounds respond to irradiation with more energetic UV light, which shows only a minor depth of tissue penetration in the µm range. Thus, we became interested in UV light containing Cherenkov radiation (CR) induced as a by-product by clinically employed radionuclides labeling specific tissues. Therefore, CR may be applicable in novel photopharmacological approaches. To provide evidence for the hypothesis, we verified the clinically established radionuclides ⁶⁸Ga and ⁹⁰Y but not ¹⁸F in clinically used activities to be capable of generating CR in aqueous solutions. We then investigated whether the generated CR was able to photoactivate the caged kinase inhibitor cagedAZD5438 as a photoresponsive model system. Herein, 21% uncaging of the model system cagedAZD5438 occurred by incubation with ⁹⁰Y, along with a non-specific compound decomposition for ⁶⁸Ga and partly for ⁹⁰Y. The findings suggest that the combination of a clinically employed radionuclide with an optimized photoresponsive agent could be beneficial for highly focused photopharmacological therapies.

Mechanistic Investigation of Enhanced Photoreactivity of Dissolved Organic Matter after Chlorination

Chlorine is commonly used in disinfection processes in wastewater treatment plants prior to discharge of the effluents into receiving waters. Effluent organic matter and humic substances constitute up to 90% of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in receiving water, which induces photogeneration of reactive species (RS) such as excited triplet state of DOM (³DOM*), singlet oxygen (¹O₂), and hydroxyl radical (^•OH). The RS plays an important role in the attenuation of trace pollutants. However, the effect of chlorine disinfection on the photoreactivity of the DOM has remained unclear. Here, we investigated the physicochemical properties and subsequent RS variation after chlorination of DOM. Solid-state ¹³C cross-polarization/magic angle-spinning NMR and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry verified that the aromaticity, electron-donating capacity (EDC), and average molecular weight of DOM decreased markedly after chlorination. It was found for the first time that the photoproduction of ³DOM*, ¹O₂, and ^•OH increased markedly after chlorination of DOM upon irradiation of simulated sunlight. The quantum yields of ³DOM*, ¹O₂, and ^•OH were positively correlated with E2/E3 (ratio of the absorbance at 254 to 365 nm) while negatively correlated with EDC before and after chlorination. These findings highlight the synergetic effect of chlorine disinfection on the photosensitization of DOM under irradiation of sunlight, which will promote the removal of trace pollutants in surface waters.

The Role of the Reactive Species Involved in the Photocatalytic Degradation of HDPE Microplastics Using C,N-TiO2 Powders

Microplastics (MPs) are distributed in a wide range of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems throughout the planet. They are known to adsorb hazardous substances and can transfer them across the trophic web. To eliminate MPs pollution in an environmentally friendly process, we propose using a photocatalytic process that can easily be implemented in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). As photocatalysis involves the formation of reactive species such as holes (h+), electrons (e-), hydroxyl (OH●), and superoxide ion (O2●-) radicals, it is imperative to determine the role of those species in the degradation process to design an effective photocatalytic system. However, for MPs, this information is limited in the literature. Therefore, we present such reactive species' role in the degradation of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) MPs using C,N-TiO2. Tert-butanol, isopropyl alcohol (IPA), Tiron, and Cu(NO3)2 were confirmed as adequate OH●, h+, O2●- and e- scavengers. These results revealed for the first time that the formation of free OH● through the pathways involving the photogenerated e- plays an essential role in the MPs' degradation. Furthermore, the degradation behaviors observed when h+ and O2●- were removed from the reaction system suggest that these species can also perform the initiating step of degradation.

Photolysis of atrazine: Role of triplet dissolved organic matter and limitations of sensitizers and quenchers

Atrazine, a widely used herbicide, is susceptible to photolysis. The role of triplet excited states of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (³CDOM*) in the photolysis of atrazine, however, is not well understood. The direct photolysis of atrazine under irradiation sources (natural sunlight/environmentally relevant simulated solar light) and its indirect photochemical reactivity with model triplet photosensitizers (benzophenone, 2-acetonaphthone, 3'-methoxy-acetophenone, 4-carboxybenzophenone, rose bengal, methylene blue, and anthraquinone-2-sulphonate) was investigated. The reactivity of the model sensitizers and DOM (Suwannee River natural organic matter, river/lake water, and wastewater effluent), were compared. The direct photolysis quantum yield was determined as 0.0196 mol Einstein^-1 in a solar simulator and 0.00437 mol Einstein^-1 under natural sunlight. Considerable photosensitization was induced by triplet state (n-π*) model sensitizers, while insignificant effects on atrazine loss were discerned in natural organic matter even when oxygen, a triplet quencher, was removed. The triplet sensitizers benzophenone and 2-acetylnaphthone reacted with L-histidine and 2-propanol that were intended to quench/ scavenge ¹O₂ and hydroxyl radical ^•OH, respectively, and benzophenone reacted with NaN₃ as a ¹O₂ scavenger and furfuryl alcohol as a ¹O₂ trapping agent, indicating quenchers may have unanticipated effects when using model sensitizers. Atrazine loss via reaction with ³DOM* will be relevant only in selected conditions, and this work provides a more comprehensive view on the use of model photosensitizers to mimic triplet ³DOM*.

Interfacial Molecular Fractionation on Ferrihydrite Reduces the Photochemical Reactivity of Dissolved Organic Matter

The selective sorption of dissolved organic matter (DOM) on minerals is a widespread geochemical process in the natural environment. Recent studies have explored the influence of this process on the molecular fractionation of DOM at water-mineral interfaces. However, it remains unclear how molecular fractionation affects the photochemistry of DOM. Here, we demonstrate that the adsorptive fractionation of DOM on ferrihydrite greatly reduces its photoproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) including ¹O₂, O₂^•-, and •OH normalized to organic carbon (ROS_OC). The ROS_OC for ¹O₂, O₂^•-, and •OH were positively correlated with the abundances of polyphenols and oxygenated polycyclic aromatics, which were also observed using Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) analysis to be preferentially sequestered by ferrihydrite. The molecules that preferentially remained in the solution after adsorption displayed low levels of ROS_OC. The molecular fractionation of DOM induced by adsorption on ferrihydrite therefore influenced the molecular components and also significantly reduced the photoreactive fractions of DOM in waters. These results are very important in promoting our understanding of the effects of molecular fractionation on the biogeochemical features, behaviors, and implications of DOM in the environment.

Singlet oxygen production abilities of oxidated aromatic compounds in natural water

Singlet oxygen (¹O₂) is well known to be formed through energy transfer from excited state organic matters to O₂, playing an important role in the transformations of contaminants. However, the contribution of small oxidated aromatic compounds (OACs) to the production of ¹O₂ in surface water is unclear. In this study, 28 OACs were selected to investigate the correlations between their photochemical production abilities of ¹O₂ and molecular structures. Our results showed that the steady-state concentrations and quantum yields of ¹O₂ (Φ_1O2) generated by OACs were in the range of 7.0 × 10^-14-1.4 × 10^-12 M and 2.2 × 10^-4-4.7 × 10^-2, respectively, indicating that the photochemical production abilities of ¹O₂ by OACs varied greatly with types and positions of functional groups on the molecule. More importantly, the observed photochemical production of ¹O₂ was most notable in cases of molecules containing -OCH₃ group and benzoquinone. A good quantitative structure-property relationship model was established between ¹O₂ producing ability, energy of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (E_LUMO) and the most positive net charge of hydrogen atoms (qH⁺) of OACs. In addition, the role of ¹O₂ produced by 2, 6-dimethoxy-1, 4-benzoquinone, the OAC with the highest Φ_1O2, in the photodegradation of organic contaminants was validated by the enhanced degradation of atorvastatin under simulated sunlight, suggesting that OACs ubiquitously existed in surface water may greatly affect the fate and ecological risks of organic contaminants.

Physiological regulation of reactive oxygen species in organisms based on their physicochemical properties

Oxidative stress is recognized as free radical dyshomeostasis, which has damaging effects on proteins, lipids and DNA. However, during cell differentiation and proliferation and other normal physiological processes, free radicals play a pivotal role in message transmission and are considered important messengers. Organisms maintain free radical homeostasis through a sophisticated regulatory system in which these "2-faced" molecules play appropriate roles under physiological and pathological conditions. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), including a large number of free radicals, act as redox signalling molecules in essential cellular signalling pathways, including cell differentiation and proliferation. However, excessive ROS levels can induce oxidative stress, which is an important risk factor for diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. An overall comprehensive understanding of ROS is beneficial for understanding the pathogenesis of certain diseases and finding new therapeutic treatments. This review primarily focuses on ROS cellular localization, sources, chemistry and molecular targets to determine how to distinguish between the roles of ROS as messengers and in oxidative stress.

Effects of acetylacetone on the thermal and photochemical conversion of benzoquinone in aqueous solution

Quinones are components of electron transport chains in photosynthesis and respiration. Acetylacetone (AA), structurally similar to benzoquinone (BQ) for the presence of two identical carbonyl groups, has been reported as a quinone-like electron shuttle. Both BQ and AA are important chemicals in the aquatic environment. However, little information is known about their interactions if co-existed. We found here that AA significantly enhanced the conversion of BQ. By analyzing the evolution of chemical concentration, solution pH, dissolved oxygen, and the final products, the interactions between AA and BQ were elucidated. The reactions between BQ and AA generated oxygen but ultimately led to the reduction of solution pH and dissolved oxygen. The reactions proceeded faster under indoor lighting condition than in the dark. The formation of semiquinone radicals is believed as the primary step. The secondary AA-derived radicals might be strongly oxidative or reductive, depending on the concentration of dissolved oxygen. Insoluble humus was generated in the mixture of BQ and AA. These results suggest that the presence of AA might interfere with photosynthesis and respiration through the interactions with quinones.

Redox Conversion of Arsenite and Nitrate in the UV/Quinone Systems

Whether superoxide radical anion (O₂^•-) was a key reactive species in the oxidation of arsenite (As(III)) in photochemical processes has long been a controversial issue. With hydroquinone (BQH₂) and 1,4-benzoquinone (BQ) as redox mediators, the photochemical oxidation of As(III) and reduction of nitrate (NO₃^-) was carefully investigated. O₂^•-, singlet oxygen (¹O₂), H₂O₂, and semiquinone radical (BQH^•) were all possible reactive species in the irradiated system. However, since the formation of As(IV) is a necessary step in the oxidation of As(III), taking the standard reduction potentials into account, the reactions between the above species and As(III) were thermodynamically unfavorable. On the basis of radical scavenging experiments, hydroxyl radical (^•OH) was proved as the key species that led to the oxidation of As(III) in the UV/BQH₂ system. It should be noted that the ^•OH radicals were generated from the photolysis of H₂O₂, which came from the disproportionation of O₂^•- and the reaction of O₂^•- with BQH₂. Both the photoejected e_aq^- from ¹(BQH₂)* and the direct electron transfer with ³(BQH₂)* contributed to the reduction of NO₃^- in the UV/BQH₂ process. No synergistic effect was observed in the redox conversion of As(III) and NO₃^-, further demonstrating that the role of BQH^• was negligible in the studied systems. The results here are helpful for a better understanding of the photochemical behaviors of quinones in the aquatic environment.

Mass Spectrometry-Inspired Degradation of Disinfection By-Product, 2,6-Dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone, in Drinking Water by Heating

2,6-Dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (DCBQ), a highly toxic and carcinogenic disinfection by-product, was degraded during the electrospray process by elevating the source temperature. This unexpected finding inspired us to use heating to degrade DCBQs in drinking water. The results show that about 99% of DCBQs in the drinking water were degraded in one minute by heating to 100°C with room light irradiation. Therefore, a conclusion can be drawn that heating enables the degradation of DCBQs in drinking water.

Photodegradation of Dicloran in Freshwater and Seawater

Dicloran appears to be a model pesticide for investigating photodegradation processes in surface waters. Photodegradation processes are particularly relevant to this compound as it is applied to crops grown in proximity to freshwater and marine ecosystems. The photodegradation of dicloran under simulated sunlight was measured in distilled water, artificial seawater, phosphate buffer, and filter-sterilized estuarine water to determine its half-life, degradation rate, and photodegradation products. The half-life was approximately 7.5 h in all media. There was no significant difference in the rate of degradation between distilled water and artificial seawater for dicloran. For the intermediate products, a higher concentration of 2-chloro-1,4-benzoquinone was measured in artificial seawater versus distilled water, while a slightly higher concentration of 1,4-benzoquinone was measured in distilled water versus artificial seawater. The detection of chloride and nitrate ions after 2 h of light exposure suggests photonucleophilic substitution contributes to the degradation process. Differences in product distributions between water types suggest that salinity impacts on chemical degradation may need to be addressed in chemical exposure assessments.

Characterization of Mechanisms of Glutathione Conjugation with Halobenzoquinones in Solution and HepG2 Cells

Halobenzoquinones (HBQs) are a class of emerging disinfection byproducts. Chronic exposure to chlorinated drinking water is potentially associated with an increased risk of human bladder cancer. HBQ-induced cytotoxicity involves depletion of cellular glutathione (GSH), but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here we used ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy to study interactions between HBQs and GSH and found that HBQs can directly react with GSH, forming various glutathionyl conjugates (HBQ-SG) in both aqueous solution and HepG2 cells. We found that the formation of HBQ-SG varies with the initial molar ratio of GSH to HBQ in reaction mixtures. Higher molar ratios of GSH to HBQ facilitate the conjugation of more GSH molecules to an HBQ molecule. We deduced the reaction mechanism between GSH and HBQs, which involves redox cycling-induced formation of halosemiquinone (HSQ) free radicals and glutathione disulfide, Michael addition, as well as nucleophilic substitution. The proposed reaction rates are in the following order: formation of HSQ radicals > substitution of bromine by GSH > Michael addition of GSH on the benzoquinone ring > substitution of chlorine by GSH > substitution of the methyl group by GSH. The conjugates identified in HBQ-treated HepG2 cells were the same as those found in aqueous solution containing a 5:1 ratio of GSH:HBQs.

Mathematical description of pH-stat kinetic traces measured during photochemical quinone decomposition

Substituted 1,4-benzoquinone (QR) derivatives are photosensitive in aqueous solution and form hydroquinones (QR-H₂) and hydroxy-quinones (QR-OH), two weak acids in their photoreaction. For this reason, the kinetics of the photoreaction can be conveniently followed by the pH-stat titration technique. The mathematical description of the kinetic traces measured provides the two main parameters of the photoreaction: the differential quantum yield of the reaction (Φ) and the ratio of the two photo-products, i.e. the fraction of QR that is converted to QR-OH (α). These values are described in this paper for 2,5-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone at different pH values, together with the detailed mathematical evaluation of the application limits of the pH-stat method for such reactions.

Synthesis of new photosensitive H2BBQ2+[ZnCl4]2−/[(ZnCl)2(μ-BBH)] complexes, through selective oxidation of H2O to H2O2

A two-electron photosensitive H₂O to H₂O₂ oxidizer, H₂BBQ²⁺[ZnCl₄]²⁻/[(ZnCl)₂(μ-BBH)], has been synthesized. An aqueous {[(ZnCl)₂(μ-BBH)]||H₂O₂} solar rechargeable galvanic cell has been constructed.

Probe Compounds to Assess the Photochemical Activity of Dissolved Organic Matter

The photochemical properties of dissolved organic matter (DOM) have been of interest to scientists and engineers since the 1970s. Upon light absorption, chromophoric DOM (CDOM) can sensitize the formation of different short-lived reactive intermediates (RIs), including hydroxyl radical (^•OH), singlet oxygen (¹O₂) and superoxide radical anion (O₂^•-). In addition, a fraction of the excited singlet states in CDOM decays into excited triplet states (³CDOM*), which are also important photochemical transients in environmental systems. These RIs have a significant impact on different processes in sunlit waters, including degradation of organic contaminants and the inactivation of pathogens. Due to their transient nature and low steady-state concentrations, the use of common analytical techniques for the direct measurement of these species is impractical. Therefore, specific probe compounds (PCs) are used. PCs include furfuryl alcohol for ¹O₂, and terephthalic acid for ^•OH. In this publication, we present a critical review of the use of PCs for the assessment of the formation of photochemically generated RIs. We first introduce the concept of a PC, including the kinetic treatment and necessary assumptions needed to conduct a specific measurement. Afterward, we present short overviews of the most studied RIs and review relevant issues regarding the use of specific PCs for their measurement. We finalize by offering recommendations regarding the use of PCs in environmental photochemistry.

Photomineralization of aqueous salicylic acids. Photoproducts characterization and formation of light induced secondary OH precursors (LIS-OH)

The photolysis of aqueous 5-chlorosalicylic acid (ClSA) and dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHBA), its main photoproduct, was studied to determine the extent of degradation caused by simulated solar light. Photoproducts identification was achieved using high resolution LC-MS and GC-MS. About 40 photoproducts from C₁₉ to C₁ were characterized, including a dihydroxycyclopentadienic acid, a ring contraction photoproduct, and numerous carbonyls and carboxylic acid derivatives that were detected thanks to derivatization. UV-visible spectral monitoring of the reactions revealed that ClSA and DHBA underwent photobleaching after developing a temporarily featureless absorbance between 300 and 500 nm. Measurement of OH radicals using terephtalic acid as a probe showed that OH radicals were generated with an average rate of 7 × 10^-9 M s^-1 and a total cumulated concentration of 10^-3 M, corresponding to ∼ 5-fold the initial concentration of DHBA. Furthermore, TOC analysis indicated that significant mineralization (51-90%) occurred. These findings are consistent with the formation of light induced secondary OH (LIS-OH) precursors such as featureless long wavelength absorbing compounds as well as non-absorbing hydroperoxides. The formation of LIS-OH illustrated here may also take place in the aqueous photodegradation of other substituted phenols likely present in dissolved organic matter and humic substructures, it deserves to be studied in more details.

Triplet state dissolved organic matter in aquatic photochemistry: reaction mechanisms, substrate scope, and photophysical properties

Excited triplet states of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (³CDOM*) play a major role among the reactive intermediates produced upon absorption of sunlight by surface waters. After more than two decades of research on the aquatic photochemistry of ³CDOM*, the need for improving the knowledge about the photophysical and photochemical properties of these elusive reactive species remains considerable. This critical review examines the efforts to date to characterize ³CDOM*. Information on ³CDOM* relies mainly on the use of probe compounds because of the difficulties associated with directly observing ³CDOM* using transient spectroscopic methods. Singlet molecular oxygen (¹O₂), which is a product of the reaction between ³CDOM* and dissolved oxygen, is probably the simplest indicator that can be used to estimate steady-state concentrations of ³CDOM*. There are two major modes of reaction of ³CDOM* with substrates, namely triplet energy transfer or oxidation (via electron transfer, proton-coupled electron transfer or related mechanisms). Organic molecules, including several environmental contaminants, that are susceptible to degradation by these two different reaction modes are reviewed. It is proposed that through the use of appropriate sets of probe compounds and model photosensitizers an improved estimation of the distribution of triplet energies and one-electron reduction potentials of ³CDOM* can be achieved.

Activation of Peroxymonosulfate by Benzoquinone: A Novel Nonradical Oxidation Process

The reactions between peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and quinones were investigated for the first time in this work, where benzoquinone (BQ) was selected as a model quinone. It was demonstrated that BQ could efficiently activate PMS for the degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX; a frequently detected antibiotic in the environments), and the degradation rate increased with solution pH from 7 to 10. Interestingly, quenching studies suggested that neither hydroxyl radical (•OH) nor sulfate radical (SO4•-) was produced therein. Instead, the generation of singlet oxygen (1O2) was proved by using two chemical probes (i.e., 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinol and 9,10-diphenylanthracene) with the appearance of 1O2 indicative products detected by electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometry and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, respectively. A catalytic mechanism was proposed involving the formation of a dioxirane intermediate between PMS and BQ and the subsequent decomposition of this intermediate into 1O2. Accordingly, a kinetic model was developed, and it well described the experimental observation that the pH-dependent decomposition rate of PMS was first-order with respect to BQ. These findings have important implications for the development of novel nonradical oxidation processes based on PMS, because 1O2 as a moderately reactive electrophile may suffer less interference from background organic matters compared with nonselective •OH and SO4•-.

Photosensitised humic-like substances (HULIS) formation processes of atmospheric significance: a review

Photosensitised reactions can produce compounds that closely resemble the humic-like substances (HULIS) occurring in atmospheric aerosols. The relevant processes have been observed in the laboratory, in both gas-solid systems and the aqueous phase. They involve triplet sensitisers (such as benzophenones, anthraquinones and nitroaromatic compounds, which yield reactive triplet states after sunlight absorption) or photogenerated oxidants like (•)OH, in the presence of substrates that undergo oligomerisation reactions upon oxidation. Formation of higher molecular weight compounds, modification of the wettability properties of organic films and photoproduction of substances with humic-like fluorescence properties have been observed as a consequence of the photosensitised reactions. Ozone plays an important but still not completely clear role in gas-solid systems.

Photoproduction of hydrogen peroxide in aqueous solution from model compounds for chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM)

To explore whether quinone moieties are important in chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) photochemistry in natural waters, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and associated optical property changes were measured in aqueous solutions irradiated with a Xenon lamp for CDOM model compounds (dihydroquinone, benzoquinone, anthraquinone, napthoquinone, ubiquinone, humic acid HA, fulvic acid FA). All compounds produced H2O2 with concentrations ranging from 15 to 500 μM. Production rates were higher for HA vs. FA (1.32 vs. 0.176 mM h(-1)); values ranged from 6.99 to 0.137 mM h(-1) for quinones. Apparent quantum yields (Θ app; measure of photochemical production efficiency) were higher for HA vs. FA (0.113 vs. 0.016) and ranged from 0.0018 to 0.083 for quinones. Dihydroquinone, the reduced form of benzoquinone, had a higher production rate and efficiency than its oxidized form. Post-irradiation, quinone compounds had absorption spectra similar to HA and FA and 3D-excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectra (EEMs) with fluorescent peaks in regions associated with CDOM.

Photopatternable and photoactive hydrogel for on-demand generation of hydrogen peroxide in cell culture

Oxidative stress, largely mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), is a nearly ubiquitous component in complex biological processes such as aging and disease. Optimal in vitro methods used in elucidating disease mechanisms would deliver of low levels of hydrogen peroxide, emulating the in vivo pathological state, but current methods are limited by kinetic stability or accurate measurement of the dose administered. Here we present an in vitro platform that exploits anthraquinone catalysts for the photocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide. This system can be dynamically tuned to provide constant generation of hydrogen peroxide at a desired physiologic rate over at least 14 days and is described using a kinetic model. Material characterization and stability is discussed along with a proof-of-concept in vitro study that assessed the viability of cells as they were oxidatively challenged over 24 h at different ROS generation rates.

Impact of halides on the photoproduction of reactive intermediates from organic matter

The excitation of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from sunlight produces a range of reactive intermediates, including triplet-excited state dissolved organic matter ((3)DOM*), hydroxyl radical (HO(•)), and singlet oxygen ((1)O2). These intermediates are important for the inactivation of pathogens and for the degradation of trace organic contaminants (OC) within natural and engineered systems. However, halides found in the background matrix can alter the photoproduction rates by promoting or quenching the formation of these intermediates. Apparent quantum yields (Φ(a)) for (1)O2, HO(•), and steady state (3)DOM* concentrations photoproduced from DOM isolates were determined with varying concentrations of chloride and bromide. Fluorescence quantum yields were measured as well to probe the photophysics of the system. The maximum fluorescence quantum yield (ΦF) decreased with the addition of halides, representing a quenching of the excited singlet state of DOM. In contrast, the steady state concentrations for (3)DOM* were enhanced, suggesting intersystem crossing from the singlet state to the triplet state was increased by the presence of halides. The Φ(a) for (1)O2 was increased with the addition of halides, which was expected following the (3)DOM* results because the mechanism for (1)O2 production occurs through the inactivation of (3)DOM* by dissolved oxygen. Although HO(•) production would be expected to follow (1)O2, the opposite trend was seen, which suggests the formation of HO(•) does not occur through the same precursor. Understanding the impact of specific quenchers on DOM could be a key to understanding the true formation potential for reactive intermediates and is especially important in estuaries and wastewater impacted aquatic systems.

Photochemical transformation of ibuprofen into harmful 4-isobutylacetophenone: pathways, kinetics, and significance for surface waters

The harmful compound 4-isobutylacetophenone (IBAP) can be formed photochemically from the anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen (IBP), upon direct photolysis (yield 25 ± 7%, μ ± σ), reaction with ·OH (yield 2.3 ± 0.1%) and reaction with triplet states of chromophoric dissolved organic matter, (3)CDOM* (yield 31 ± 4%). In the latter case, anthraquinone-2-sulphonate was used as CDOM proxy. The three processes would account for most of the photochemical transformation of IBP and IBAP in surface waters. IBAP formation from IBP involves the propanoic acid chain, which is more reactive than the aromatic ring as shown by quantum mechanical calculations. IBAP is expected to undergo slightly faster photochemical transformation than IBP in surface waters, with a modelled pseudo-first order rate constant that is higher by 1.5-1.9 times compared to IBP. Due to fairly high formation yields and depending on IBP emission scenarios, photochemical modelling suggests that IBAP could reach concentration values up to ~15% of IBP in surface waters, thus being a potentially important transformation intermediate. This issue prompts for the need of field studies that provide information on IBAP environmental occurrence, which is virtually unknown at the present moment.

Photochemical formation of hydroxyl radical from effluent organic matter: role of composition

The photochemical formation of hydroxyl radical (HO(•)) from effluent organic matter (EfOM) depends upon the chemical properties of this heterogeneous mixture. In this study, two EfOM samples collected from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP A and B) were fractionated by both hydrophobicity (bulk and non-humic) and apparent molecular weight (AMW). The apparent quantum yield for HO(•) formation (ΦHO(•)) and the maximum fluorescence quantum yield (ΦF) were subsequently measured for each subfraction. The formation rates of HO(•) (considering only the hydrogen-peroxide-independent pathways) for the bulk waters were 4.8 × 10(-10) and 9.6 × 10(-11) M s(-1) for WWTP A and B, respectively. For the AMW fractions, the values of ΦHO(•) increased as the AMW of the material decreased. For the WWTP A sample, the ΦHO(•) increased from 2.54 × 10(-4) (bulk water) to 6.29 × 10(-4) for the <1 kDa fraction, and for the WWTP B sample, the value of ΦHO(•) increased from 6.50 × 10(-5) for bulk water to 3.45 × 10(-4) for the <1 kDa fraction. In the case of fluorescence, the values of ΦF ranged from 2.37 × 10(-4) (bulk water) to 3.48 × 10(-4) (<1 kDa fraction) for WWTP A and 3.19 × 10(-4) (bulk water) to 5.75 × 10(-4) (<1 kDa fraction) for WWTP B. There was a linear correlation between ΦHO(•) and ΦF, suggesting that different photophysical processes occur in the chemical components of the fractions. Understanding the formation of HO(•) from EfOM is essential for understanding wastewater-impacted aquatic systems because these results influence the photochemical degradation and mineralization of trace organic contaminants.

Phototransformation of the sunlight filter benzophenone-3 (2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone) under conditions relevant to surface waters

The UV filter benzophenone-3 (BP3) has UV photolysis quantum yield ΦBP3=(3.1±0.3)·10(-5) and the following second-order reaction rate constants: with (•)OH, k(BP3,(•)OH)=(2.0±0.4)·10(10) M(-1) s(-1); with the triplet states of chromophoric dissolved organic matter ((3)CDOM*), K(BP3,(3)CDOM*)=(1.1±0.1)·10(9) M(-1) s(-1); with (1)O2, k(BP3,(1)O2)=(2.0±0.1)·10(5) M(-1) s(-1), and with CO3(-•), k(BP3,CO3(-•))<5·10(7) M(-1) s(-1). These data allow the modelling of BP3 photochemical transformation, which helps filling the knowledge gap about the environmental persistence of this compound. Under typical surface-water conditions, direct photolysis and reactions with (•)OH and (3)CDOM* would be the main processes of BP3 phototransformation. Reaction with (•)OH would prevail at low DOC, direct photolysis at intermediate DOC (around 5 mg C L(-1)), and reaction with (3)CDOM* at high DOC. If the reaction rate constant with CO3(-•) is near the upper limit of experimental measures (5·10(7) M(-1) s(-1)), the CO3(-•) degradation process could be somewhat important for DOC<1 mg C L(-1). The predicted half-life time of BP3 in surface waters under summertime conditions would be of some weeks, and it would increase with increasing depth and DOC. BP3 transformation intermediates were detected upon reaction with (•)OH. Two methylated derivatives were tentatively identified, and they were probably produced by reaction between BP3 and fragments arising from photodegradation. The other intermediates were benzoic acid (maximum concentration ~10% of initial BP3) and benzaldehyde (1%).

UV-induced transformation of four halobenzoquinones in drinking water

Halobenzoquinones (HBQs) are a group of emerging disinfection byproducts (DBPs) found in treated drinking water. Because the use of UV treatment for disinfection is becoming more widespread, it is important to understand how the HBQs may be removed or changed due to UV irradiation. Water samples containing four HBQs, 2,6-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (DCBQ), 2,3,6-trichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (TCBQ), 2,6-dichloro-3-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone (DCMBQ), and 2,6-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (DBBQ), were treated using a modified bench scale collimated beam device, mimicking UV treatment. Water samples before and after UV irradiation were analyzed for the parent compounds and products using a high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) method. As much as 90% of HBQs (0.25 nmol L(-1)) in both pure water and tap water were transformed to other products after UV254 irradiation at 1000 mJ cm(-2). The major products of the four HBQs were identified as 3-hydroxyl-2,6-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (OH-DCBQ) from DCBQ, 5-hydroxyl-2,6-dichloro-3-methyl-1,4-benzoquinone (OH-DCMBQ) from DCMBQ, 5-hydroxyl-2,3,6-trichloro-1,4-benzoquinone (OH-TCBQ) from TCBQ, and 3-hydroxyl-2,6-dibromo-1,4-benzoquinone (OH-DBBQ) from DBBQ. These four OH-HBQs were further modified to monohalogenated benzoquinones when the UV dose was higher than 200 mJ cm(-2). These results suggested possible pathways of UV-induced transformation of HBQs to other compounds. Under the UV dose commonly used in water treatment plants, it is likely that HBQs are partially converted to other halo-DBPs. The occurrence and toxicity of these mixed DBPs warrant further investigation to understand whether they pose a health risk.

Assessing the occurrence of the dibromide radical (Br₂⁻•) in natural waters: measures of triplet-sensitised formation, reactivity, and modelling

The triplet state of anthraquinone-2-sulphonate (AQ2S) is able to oxidise bromide to Br(•)/Br(2)(-•), with rate constant (2-4)⋅10(9)M(-1)s(-1) that depends on the pH. Similar processes are expected to take place between bromide and the triplet states of naturally occurring chromophoric dissolved organic matter ((3)CDOM*). The brominating agent Br(2)(-•) could thus be formed in natural waters upon oxidation of bromide by both (•)OH and (3)CDOM*. Br(2)(-•) would be consumed by disproportionation into bromide and bromine, as well as upon reaction with nitrite and most notably with dissolved organic matter (DOM). By using the laser flash photolysis technique, and phenol as model organic molecule, a second-order reaction rate constant of ~3⋅10(2)L(mg C)(-1)s(-1) was measured between Br(2)(-•) and DOM. It was thus possible to model the formation and reactivity of Br(2)(-•) in natural waters, assessing the steady-state [Br(2)(-•)]≈10(-13)-10(-12)M. It is concluded that bromide oxidation by (3)CDOM* would be significant compared to oxidation by (•)OH. The (3)CDOM*-mediated process would prevail in DOM-rich and bromide-rich environments, the latter because elevated bromide would completely scavenge (•)OH. Under such conditions, (•)OH-assisted formation of Br(2)(-•) would be limited by the formation rate of the hydroxyl radical. In contrast, the formation rate of (3)CDOM* is much higher compared to that of (•)OH in most surface waters and would provide a large (3)CDOM* reservoir for bromide to react with. A further issue is that nitrite oxidation by Br(2)(-•) could be an important source of the nitrating agent (•)NO(2) in bromide-rich, nitrite-rich and DOM-poor environments. Such a process could possibly account for significant aromatic photonitration observed in irradiated seawater and in sunlit brackish lagoons.

Photochemical transformation of anionic 2-nitro-4-chlorophenol in surface waters: laboratory and model assessment of the degradation kinetics, and comparison with field data

Anionic 2-nitro-4-chlorophenol (NCP) may occur in surface waters as a nitroderivative of 4-chlorophenol, which is a transformation intermediate of the herbicide dichlorprop. Here we show that NCP would undergo efficient photochemical transformation in environmental waters, mainly by direct photolysis and reaction with OH. NCP has a polychromatic photolysis quantum yield Φ(NCP)=(1.27±0.22)·10(-5), a rate constant with OH k(NCP,)(OH)=(1.09±0.09)·10(10) M(-1) s(-1), a rate constant with (1)O(2)k(NCP,1O2)=(2.15±0.38)·10(7) M(-1) s(-1), a rate constant with the triplet state of anthraquinone-2-sulphonate k(NCP,3AQ2S*)=(5.90±0.43)·10(8) M(-1) s(-1), and is poorly reactive toward CO(3)(-). The k(NCP,3AQ2S*) value is representative of reaction with the triplet states of chromophoric dissolved organic matter. The inclusion of photochemical reactivity data into a model of surface-water photochemistry allowed the NCP transformation kinetics to be predicted as a function of water chemical composition and column depth. Very good agreement between model predictions and field data was obtained for the shallow lagoons of the Rhône delta (Southern France).

Lifetimes of triplet dissolved natural organic matter (DOM) and the effect of NaBH₄ reduction on singlet oxygen quantum yields: implications for DOM photophysics

The natural lifetimes of triplet dissolved organic matter ((3)DOM) were determined by an O(2) saturation kinetics study of singlet oxygen quantum yields (Φ(1O2)) in buffered D(2)O. At least two distinct (3)DOM pools are present, and the observed lifetime range (∼20 to 80 μs) leads to a dependence of Φ(1O2) on O(2) concentrations between 29 and 290 μM. Thus, steady-state (1)O(2) concentrations will depend on [O(2)] in natural waters. The lifetimes are essentially identical for DOM samples of different origins and do not vary with excitation wavelength. However, Φ(1O2) varies greatly between samples and decreases with excitation wavelength. These data strongly suggest that (3)DOM quantum yields decrease with excitation wavelength, which gives rise to the Φ(1O2) variation. Borohydride reduction of several samples in both D(2)O and H(2)O lowers the absorbance and (1)O(2) production rates, but it does not alter Φ(1O2). This is consistent with a model in which (1)O(2) sensitizing chromophores are borohydride reducible groups in DOM, such as aromatic ketones. Interpreted in the framework of a charge transfer (CT) model for DOM optical properties, the collective data suggest a model in which electron acceptor moieties are important (1)O(2) sensitizers and where CT interactions of these moieties disrupt their ability to produce (1)O(2).