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Environmental Laboratory Exercise: Analysis of Hydrogen Peroxide by Fluorescence Spectroscopy

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Jai H. Lee

Environmental Chemistry Division, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY 11973

Judith Weinstein-Lloyd

Chemistry/Physics Program, SUNY at Old Westbury, Old Westbury, NY 11568

J. Chem. Educ., 1995, 72 (11), p 1053

DOI: 10.1021/ed072p1053

Publication Date: November 1995

Abstract

In this experiment, students analyze precipitation samples for trace concentrations of H2O2 using a newly developed fluorescence technique (Fenton method). Analysis is based on the production of OH radical by the reaction between H2O2 and ferrous ion (Fenton's reagent) with subsequent radical scavenging by benzoic acid. Unlike standard spectroscopic and titrimetric techniques, Fenton--hydrobenzoic acid analysis is sensitive enough for the determination of ambient peroxide in precipitation. In contrast to a more sensitive enzyme-based method, the reagents required are inexpensive and easily available. Reagent solutions are stable, making this experiment well-suited for the undergraduate laboratory.