Abstract: A method for decomposing volatile organic halogenated compounds in water containing such compounds and metal ions by removing the metal ions from the water and then contacting the deionized water with a reducing agent in the presence of a catalyst. The volatile organic halogenated compounds are efficiently decomposed with a small energy requirement and low cost to eliminate, thus, making the water safe.

Abstract: A method of treatment of a liquid or gaseous fluid to decompose volatile organic halogenated compounds therein comprises bringing the fluid containing volatile organic halogenated compounds in contact with a reducing agent in the presence of a metal catalyst and optionally thereafter treating the thus treated fluid with at least one of an adsorption treatment, a thermal decomposition and a biological decomposition treatment. The method efficiently decomposes the volatile organic halogenated compounds contained in a fluid, such as water or a gas, with a small expenditure of energy and at low cost and renders the fluid harmless to the environment.