Abstract: A method for treating an aqueous solution of aromatic explosives whereby losive molecules are destroyed and the resulting effluent is safe for disposal. An additive, such as acetone or hydrogen peroxide, is added to an aqueous solution of aromatic explosives and this mixture is exposed to ultraviolet light. The light exposure of the additive provides a free radical which strips hydrogen molecules from the aromatic explosives to change the aromatic explosive to an unstable intermediate compound. Continued exposure of this unstable intermediate compound to ultraviolet light converts the unstable intermediate compound to carbon dioxide and ammonia.