Formation of polychlorinated biphenyls and chlorinated benzenes by heating of bis(2,4‐dichlorobenzoyl) peroxide

The formation of di‐, tri‐, and tetrachlorobenzenes, and di‐ to hexachlorobiphenyls was demonstrated after thermal degradation of bis(2,4‐dichlorobenzoyl) peroxide alone or in various solvents at 250 °C with yields of up to several percent. Possible radical reactions between solvents and the solute are suggested. PCB congeners are also present in silicone rubber crosslinked by this peroxide.

Key words:

• Polychlorobenzene
• polychlorinated biphenyl
• bis(2,4‐dichlorobenzoyl) peroxide
• polymer