The production of chlorine atoms from the reaction of OH with chlorinated hydrocarbons

Measurements from previous studies have shown that when hydroxyl radicals react with various chlorinated hydrocarbons under atmospheric conditions, free chlorine atoms can be produced. In one such study (Edney et al., [3]) from an analysis of the rate equations under a strict set of assumptions, Cl‐atom yields could be inferred. Since the approach was indirect, a more direct method for obtaining these yields has been developed. The technique described in this study involves scavenging Cl atoms produced by the reaction (using ethylene or propylene as the scavenger) and then measuring the yield of the stable chlorinated product generated. Cl‐atom yields were determined for allyl chloride, vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, trichloroethylene, and benzyl chloride. The experiments were performed by irradiating mixtures of CH₃ONO/NO/chlorinated hydrocarbon/alkene in air in 150‐L Teflon chambers. The yields for the reaction of Cl atoms with the alkenes generating the stable products were determined in seperate experiments. Yields for the formation of Cl atoms upon reaction with hydroxyl radicals are as follows (with 1 σ deviation): allyl chloride: 0.37 ± 0.10, vinyl chloride: 0.04 ± 0.01, vinylidene chloride: 0.23 ± 0.09, trichloroethylene: 0.63 ± 0.34, and benzyl chloride: 0.08 ± 0.03.