Degradation of Phenolic Compounds Downstream from a Petroleum Refinery Complex

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Abstract
Measurements downstream from refinery outfalls in the region of Montreal East have shown that, under favorable temperature conditions, the concentration of phenolic substances in the river water rapidly diminishes with distance from the refineries. Mass balance calculations at different transverse sections show that this decrease in concentration cannot be attributed to dilution only. Laboratory experiments performed on river water samples demonstrate the effects of water temperature and sterilization on the rate of phenol breakdown. Results support the idea that biodegradation is responsible for the self-purification of phenolics in the St. Lawrence River.

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