Extensive Electronic Spectroscopy Investigation of Cr(VI) Under Variable Chemical Conditions in Aqueous Media

Abstract

The analysis of toxic chemicals in wastewater is recognized as a crucial technique for producing clean water. However, a lack of understanding of their interactions under varying chemical conditions can hinder optimal treatment. To address this issue, this research introduces the use of electronic spectroscopy (ES) to analyze Cr(VI) aqueous solutions under different chemical environments. ES is a powerful spectroscopic technique employed to study molecular interactions and dynamics within their chemical contexts. Consequently, ES was applied to Cr(VI) aqueous solutions under various chemical environments. Cr(VI) is a highly toxic, non-biodegradable, and carcinogenic oxidant, necessitating detailed spectroscopic study. This study investigates the influence of pH on the ES of Cr(VI) and determines that pH 6 (slightly acidic) is optimal for validating Beer’s law. The effect of ionic strength was examined by mixing Cr(VI) solutions with varying NaCl concentrations. Increased chloride content led to greater deviations from Beer’s law. Additionally, the impacts of organic solvents, specifically ethanol and DMSO, on the ES of Cr(VI) were explored.