SOTEC's modified Fenton's process is based on the fundamental principles of

Fenton's chemistry. H.J.H. Fenton first demonstrated the use of Fenton's

chemistry in 1894 by oxidation of tartaric acid using a soluble iron-catalyzed
decomposition of dilute hydrogen peroxide under acidic conditions. The modified
Fenton's process was developed with the fundamental goal of enhancing in situ
treatment of soil and groundwater contamination using Fenton's chemistry while
mitigating the negatives associated with application of Fenton's reagent in its
conventional form (such as acidic pH, limited catalyst mobility, etc). The process
generates powerful free radicals when the catalyst reacts with hydrogen
peroxide. The principal chemical reaction associated with the modified Fenton's
process is provided below:
H2O2 + Fe2+ => OH. + OH- + Fe3+
Where: H2O2 = Hydrogen Peroxide, Fe2+ = Ferrous Ion, Fe3+ = Ferric Ion, OH. =
Hydroxyl Radicals
In addition to the initiation reaction (1) described above that produces hydroxyl
radical oxidants, the modified Fenton's process also produces superoxide radical
and hydroperoxide anion reductants by additional chain propagation reactions
described below. The perhydroxyl radical is known to be a weaker reductant
compared to superoxide radical and hydroperoxide anions.
H2O2 + OH. => HO2. + H2OHO2. => H+ + O2.- HO2. + O2.- => HO2- + O2
Where: O2.- = superoxide radical anion, HO2- = hydroperoxide anion, HO2. =
perhydroxyl radical
The co-existing oxidation-reduction reactions associated with a modified Fenton's
process promote enhanced desorption and degradation of recalcitrant
compounds. These include compounds such as carbon tetrachloride and
chloroform, which were previously considered untreatable by Fenton's chemistry.
WHY USE MODIFIED FENTON'S REAGENT?ISOTEC's modified Fenton's
Reagent is quickly emerging as the leading remedial technique of the 21st
century. However, if you are familiar with how conventional Fenton's is most
often applied, using strong acids and high reagent concentrations under
pressure, then you are familiar with its shortcomings, often including incomplete
treatment, explosive reactions, organic vapor generation and contaminant
migration.
ISOTEC's modified Fenton's reagent was specifically designed to overcome these
problems. ISOTEC's patented catalysts allow reagents at background neutral pH
conditions to be effectively distributed within the aquifer, destroying
contaminants in saturated soil and groundwater without generating organic
vapors or high temperatures.
COMPARISON OF OTHER PEROXIDE-BASED TECHNOLOGIES
Technology Features

Hydrogen Peroxide

Classic Fenton's
Reagent

Aquifer Acidification

No

Yes

Modifie
Re

Hydroxyl Radical
Production

Limited

Yes, if pH < 3

Superoxide Radical
Production

No

Limited

Controlled Reaction

No

No

Bioremediation
Stimulation

Yes

Limited

The modified Fenton's Reagent process is an in-situ remedial treatment

technology that destroys organic contamination through co-existing chemical
oxidation and reduction. This process consists of injecting patented chelated iron
catalysts and hydrogen peroxide into contaminated aquifers.
As compared to conventional Fenton's Reagent, which require acidic conditions
(pH~3), ISOTEC's modified Fenton's Reagent process is effective at neutral
(pH~7) conditions. This is an important consideration in full-scale application,
since acidifying an aquifer is typically impractical. Additionally, the production of
superoxide, which is the driving reaction for contaminant reduction and
desorption, is inhibited at acidic conditions.
ISOTEC uses patented reagents designed for neutral subsurface conditions and
efficient hydroxyl radical and superoxide generation. ISOTEC's oxidation and
reduction method utilizes a site-specific delivery system designed to treat
organic contaminants within an area of concern. ISOTEC oxidants and catalysts
react with the organic contaminants within the subsurface producing innocuous
by-products such as carbon dioxide and water (and chloride ions if chlorinated
compounds are being treated).