Professor O'Shea's research projects focus on mechanistic organic chemistry particularly related to radical and photochemical processes. The main goal of the current research program is to achieve a fundamental mechanistic understanding of semiconductor photocatalyic, radiolytic, and sonolytic induced oxidation of organic pollutants in aqueous solutions. We use product and kinetic studies to establish the reaction pathways of hydroxyl radicals with a variety of organic compounds and chemical pollutants. The fundamental information obtained from these studies has been useful in developing predictive models. This information is imperative for the implementation and application of oxidation processes for the remediation of harmful organic compounds from groundwater and drinking water. A current focus of the research group is the oxidative degradation of alkyl ethers. Alkyl ethers, particularly MTBE, once championed as gasoline additives for cleaner burning fuel, have turned into a huge environmental problem. These substrates have been introduced into the environment in large quantities and are extremely persistent. Unfortunately they are not effectively removed by traditional methods. We have recently shown that these oxidation processes are effective and extremely promising for the treatment of these problematic pollutants. We are also studying the treatment of Arsenic contaminated water by these oxidation processes. Other research interests include the reactions of singlet oxygen and development of photochemical switches.
Updated 6/19/09 |