Formation of genotoxic quinones during bisphenol A degradation by TiO2 photocatalysis and UV photolysis: A comparative study

- BPA removal efficiencies of UV and UV-TiO2 processes were compared.
- Five new intermediates were identified, e.g. potentially mutagenic BPA 3,4-quinone.
- BPA 3,4-quinone was formed during hole oxidation of BPA onto TiO2 surface.
- Scavenging of free OH radicals enhanced BPA 3,4-quinone formation.
- Direct UV photolysis formed BPA catechols less harmful as BPA.