Enhanced dehalogenation of halogenated methanes by bimetallic Cu/Al.

A low-cost and high effective copper/aluminum (Cu/Al) bimetal has been developed for treatments of halogenated methanes, including dichloromethane, in near neutral and high pH aqueous systems. Bimetallic Cu/Al was prepared by a simple two-step synthetic method where Cu was deposited onto the Al surface. The presence of Cu on Al significantly enhanced rates of degradation of halogenated methanes and reduced toxic halogenated intermediates. The stability of Cu/Al was preliminarily studied by a multi-spiking batch experiment where complete degradation of carbon tetrachloride was achieved for seven times although the Cu/Al aging was found. Roles of Cu may involve protecting Al against an undesirable oxidation with water, enhancing reaction rates through the galvanic corrosion, and increasing the selectivity to a benign compound (i.e., methane). Kinetic analyses indicated that the activity of bimetallic Cu/Al was comparable to that of iron-based bimetals (e.g., palladized iron) and zero-valent metals. Bimetallic Cu/Al could be a promising reactive reagent for remediation of halogenated solvents-contaminated groundwater associated with high pH problems.