Gamma-ray, X-ray and electron beam based processes

The introduction to chemistry of water radiolysis, production of radicals, and radical reactions is followed by characterization of different kinds of ionizing radiation, and technological installations employed for irradiation of waters and wastewaters for their purification and remediation. The main features of radiation technology include the possibility of simultaneous conducting both oxidative and reductive processes for removal of organic pollutants; heavy metals are also reviewed. Different conditions of their radiolytic decomposition, including supporting radiolysis by other processes such as ozonation, coagulation, or biodegradation are reviewed for different groups of anthropogenic pollutants. The matrix effects, treatment of wastewaters of a different origin on the laboratory scale, and in pilot or industrial installations, together with cost-efficiency of different radiation processes are also widely discussed.