Abstract: A waste stream from energetics processing is treated using a pre-filter having media, preferably sand, and a metal that has a reducing potential, preferably elemental iron (Fe0). The pre-filter is connected to a zero-valent metal column reactor. The waste stream is pumped through the pre-filter to trap solids and deoxygenate it, then enters the reactor and is subjected to a reducing process. Most of the Fe0 is transformed to the ferrous ion (Fe+2), added to the resultant product, and fed to a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) in which Fenton oxidation occurs. This product is then sent to a sedimentation tank and pH-neutralized using a strong base such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The aqueous portion is drawn off and the sludge pumped from the sedimentation tank. Both tanks are monitored and controlled to optimize required additives, while monitoring of pressure drop across the pre-filter and column reactor establishes replacement requirements.

Abstract: The present invention is process for irrigation of a golf course, which involves monitoring reclaimed water, and treating it when necessary to avoid harmful effects to plantlife. The reclaimed water is tested with a plurality of monitors to obtain results for water quality characteristics, including: total organic carbon compounds; pH; residual chlorine; chlorides; and, sodium. These results are inputted to a computerized data handling system for data collection, storage and analysis for comparison to predetermined acceptable ranges for water quality characteristic, and to show any deviation from said acceptable ranges. Either alarms are set off or treatment occurs or both, when deviations are observed. Treatment includes a dechlorination system and an oxidation system to correct active chlorine and total organic compound levels, respectively. Other important monitors may be included for one or more of the following: hardness; turbidity; alkalinity; conductivity and nitrates.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are taught for selectively oxidizing carbon monoxide in a source of gas containing carbon monoxide and hydrogen. A gas containing carbon monoxide and hydrogen is fed into a membrane reactor (10, 50, 60) capable of selectively absorbing the carbon monoxide. Preferably, the reactor comprises a substantially defect-free zeolite membrane (4) having at one metal that acts as an oxidation catalyst. The zeolite membrane (4) may be supported on a porous ceramic support (2, 52, 61) and the average pore diameter is preferably between about 0.3 nm and about 1.0 nm. Moreover, the substantially defect-free zeolite membrane (4) preferably has a thickness between about 0.1 micron and about 50.0 microns. The at least one metal is preferably capable of selectively oxidizing the carbon monoxide and is preferably platinum. Preferably, the temperature of reactor housing is maintained at about 200-300 degrees centigrade.

Abstract: Continuous breakpoint halogenation with hydroxyl free radical species is used to increase the rate of sanitization a water system and maintain a high rate of oxidation in the bulk water of the pool, spas, and other water systems despite the presence of accumulated demand. Undesirable compounds can be eliminated by maintaining a level of desired oxidation potential. The feedrate and ratio of halogen donor and free radical species can be optimized to sustain the desired ppm range of halogen and sustain an ORP of, for example, 780 mV-820 mV. Sustaining these parameters can prevent or even reverse the accumulation of combined halogen and other halogenated volatile compounds, which can contaminate the air and water of water facilities such as indoor swimming pools.

Abstract: Methods for decontaminating fluids such as blood products, particularly platelets or red blood cells, are provided. The methods include mixing substantially non-toxic amounts of an endogenous photosensitizer such as riboflavin, or an endogenously-based derivative photosensitizer, with the fluid, increasing the dissolved oxygen content of the fluid to an amount sufficient to enhance a reaction of the photosensitizer in which singlet oxygen is formed and reduce competing reactions; and exposing the fluid to visible light photoradiation to activate the photosensitizer and substantially inactivate the pathogens. Blood products produced by the method, and systems for carrying out the method are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for selectively removing one or more organic and also preferably one or more inorganic contaminants from plating baths. More particularly, the invented method relates to the use of a source of energy in combination with chemical oxidants, alone or in conjunction with a catalyst to oxidize organic contaminants in the plating bath to a level such that the electroplating bath can be recovered and reused after appropriate chemical adjustment. The oxidative treatment method may be a continuous process or a batch process that is performed in a single pass and the endpoint of the oxidative process detected by a sensor. Residual organics, if desired, and chloride ions in the bath are removed from the solution by a chemisorption or physisorption treatment.

Abstract: In a method of improving the quality of diesel fuel, an oxidizing gas is formed into sub-micron size bubbles which are dispersed into diesel fuel, after which the treated fuel is recovered. The oxidizing gas is preferably ozone and is utilized immediately upon its manufacture. By means of the method, sulfur is removed from the diesel fuel and the cetane rating thereof is increased.

Abstract: A method of treating mine drainage water including the step of adding a scale control agent to the mine drainage water and, optionally, adding an oxidizing agent to the mine drainage water and/or precipitating and settling the metals in their hydroxide form from the water. The treated water may be safely returned to the environment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for treating dredged material in which liquid is first added to the dredged material, and dewatering the dredged material to obtain a filtrate and a solid portion. Contaminants are removed from the dredged material by at least one oxidation process. The solid portion may be used to form structural articles.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a process and an apparatus for removing deep sub-micron particles from water. The invented process includes adjusting pH value and conductivity, adding an oxidation agent, performing an electro coagulation reaction/an electro-oxidation reaction, and performing a flocculation sedimentation, etc. The invented apparatus includes a front adjustment tank for adjusting the properties of waste water, wherein the adjustment includes a pH adjustment, an electrolyte adjustment, or an oxidant addition, etc.

Abstract: A purification method for purifying contaminated underground water comprises the steps of characterizing the soil composition at the location of the contaminated water, taking a sample of the contaminated underground water from one or more wells at the location of contaminated water, characterizing the concentrations of contaminants in the collected sample, introducing into the sample a nutrient environment comprising mineral and organic components to effect the growth of sulfate reducing bacteria, accumulating a biomass of selected sulfate reducing bacteria, and introducing the biomass into the contaminated water via one or more wells at the location of the contaminated water.

Abstract: The present invention is process for irrigation of a golf course, which involves monitoring reclaimed water, and treating it when necessary to avoid harmful effects to plantlike. The reclaimed water is tested with a plurality of monitors to obtain results for water quality characteristics, including: total organic carbon compounds; pH; residual chlorine; chlorides; and, sodium. These results are inputted to a computerized data handling system for data collection, storage and analysis for comparison to predetermined acceptable ranges for water quality characteristic, and to show any deviation from said acceptable ranges. Either alarms are set off or treatment occurs or both, when deviations are observed. Treatment includes a dechlorination system and an oxidation system to correct active chlorine and total organic compound levels, respectively. Other important monitors may be included for one or more of the following: hardness; turbidity; alkalinity; conductivity and nitrates.

Abstract: A product, capable of treating contaminated fluids, preferably gases, is disclosed. The product contains a carrier, an activated metal oxide, an odor counteractant, a carrier for the odor counteractant, and an agent which limits diffusion of the odor counteractant. The product removes sulfur contaminants, such as hydrogen sulfide and mercaptans, while also reducing and/or neutralizing other common odor causing compounds in fluids, preferably gases. Methods of making and using the product are also disclosed.

Abstract: Spent caustic and other wastewater streams are pretreated by continuous chemical oxidation. According to one aspect, a wastewater stream is pretreated by continuous chemical oxidation in a plug flow reactor. According to another aspect, a catalyst and an oxidizer are fed into a wastewater stream at first and second predetermined points of addition. Compounds in the wastewater stream susceptible to chemical oxidation are reacted with the chemical oxidizer. A modular, optionally fully automated apparatus is provided for pretreating spent caustic and other wastewater streams.

Abstract: A method for removing sulfide from a liquid sample such as water in a test for arsenic. The method involves adding a strong oxidizing agent to the sample to oxidize the sulfide to sulfate, and then adding an organic amine to the sample to react with any remaining oxidizing agent.

Abstract: A method for incubation of nitrifying bacteria in a high concentration which are contained in small amount in activated sludge includes subjecting the activated sludge to nitrification and acclimation culture for about one to two months using a sludge-treated waste liquid such as dehydrate sludge filtrate and digested eluate under such a condition that the dissolved oxygen is 2-4 mg/liter, the pH is 7.5-8.5 and the temperature is 25-35° C. and, at the same time, constantly maintaining the pH within the pH range of 7.7-8.5 by addition of an incubation promoter comprising a mixture of sodium carbonate and sodium hydrogen carbonate.

Abstract: A process for preparing a disinfectant for use in swimming pools and the like. The process provides a formulation containing copper sulfate pentahydrate that will remain suspended so long as the formulation is maintained at a temperature above 40° F. The process includes the step of mixing the copper sulfate pentahydrate with water, sulfuric acid and ammonium sulfate at a temperature of 187° F.±10° F., then rapidly cooling the mixture to a temperature of 57-65° F. Colloidal silver or gold added to the formulation before the step of rapidly cooling will also remain suspended. Hydrogen peroxide may be added to enhance the performance of the disinfectant.

Abstract: A method of oxidizing an inorganic species in an aqueous solution of pH 5 or greater, comprises the steps of (i) supplying an oxidizable form of a sulfur compound, and oxygen to the solution; and (ii) adding a source of iron to the solution and allowing oxidation to take place. The method finds particular application in the treatment of manganese and other species in potable water, industrial waste waters and process liquors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for converting chemical structures, that is to say a process for the conducting of chemical reactions in a fluid under pressure and at temperature in a supercritical fluid in particular, containing a solvent and at least one electrolyte such as a salt, in which reactive species are generated in situ by electrolysis. According to the invention, the fluid flows upwards in a reservoir reactor crossing through a first lower electrolysis zone with high salt solubility and a second upper zone in which the salts precipitate, then the fluid free of salt is evacuated at the upper part of said reservoir reactor and directed into a second tubular reactor to reach the desired stage of advancement of the conversion.

Abstract: A cost-effective method for reducing the dissolved sulfide content in a wastewater stream and thereby hydrogen sulfide emissions therefrom involving the steps of adding a transition metal salt to the wastewater stream at the upper reaches of a wastewater collection system prior to at least some hydrogen sulfide volatilization followed by addition of an oxidant to the wastewater stream to generate elemental sulfur and a transition metal salt which subsequently participates in additional hydrogen sulfide capturing steps, thereby also improving water quality and wastewater treatment plant operations.

Abstract: A device for treating liquid medium has an ultrasound emitter located relative to a compartment of a container holding a liquid medium and a microbubble emitter located relative to the compartment. The ultrasound emitter emits high-frequency ultrasound between about 200 KHz and 10 MHz. The microbubble emitter emits bubbles with an average diameter of less than 1 mm.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a device for treating liquids, such as wastewater. According to the invention the liquid is transported by help of a pump (10) from the lower area of a tank (1) through a vertically directed pipe (3) up to a 180 degree bend (5) located above the water surface and where air is sucked in through openings in the bend. The air-liquid mixture is then guided through a second pipe (6) having its outlet (7) close to the tank bottom (2). In this area the flow is once more linked 180 degrees and is directed through a third pipe (8) ending close to the water surface. Thanks to the linking through the pipe (8), a decrease of the static head is obtained against which the pump (10) operates.

Abstract: In addition to the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83), a hydrothermal treatment system (60) includes an effluent stream splitting arrangement (86) for receiving hydrothermal reaction effluent and splitting this effluent to produce two separate effluent streams. These separated effluent streams are used to heat at least a water stream and first reactant material stream before these streams are injected into the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83). A first split effluent heat exchange arrangement (81) places one split effluent stream in a heat exchange relationship with the water input to the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83). A second split effluent heat exchange arrangement (79, 80) places the other split effluent stream in a heat exchange relationship with both the first reactant material and the water input to the contactor and reactor arrangement (10, 83).

Abstract: A chemical decontamination apparatus an oxidizing solution reservoir for storing oxidizing agent decontamination agent of a decontamination tank subsequent to oxidizing decontamination, a reducing solution reservoir for storing reducing agent decontamination agent of the aforementioned decontamination tank subsequent to reducing agent decontamination, and a transfer pump for mutual transfer of decontamination agent between the aforementioned decontamination tank and reservoir; and is designed to permit repeated use of decontamination agent.

Abstract: A method or process of treating a contaminated fluid (10) having at least one contaminant having a property selected from the group consisting of being volatile, hazardous, tacky and a combination thereof is provided. The method comprises contacting the contaminated fluid with an effective amount of an agent (12) selected from oxidizing agents, free radical producing agents and a combination thereof for an effective amount of time to convert a substantial amount of the at least one contaminant to at least one corresponding modified contaminant having a property selected from the group consisting of being non-volatile, less volatile than the converted contaminant non-hazardous, less hazardous than the converted contaminant, non-tacky and a combination thereof; and generating a treated fluid (14) having a level of the at least one contaminant and of the at least one corresponding modified contaminant to allow the treated fluid to at least meet requirements for release, reuse or further treatment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process of oxidation, of the wet oxidation or ozonization type, of a liquid contained in a reactor. The gas of the gas headspace is aspirated into the liquid, and the portion which is not dissolved in the liquid is recovered in the gas headspace. The agitation means creates a flow of liquid immediately adjacent to the end of the duct opening into the liquid, and generates a gas/liquid dispersion in the zone, within which the liquid reacts with the gas, then conveys and ejects the said dispersion at its periphery, such that the gas is dissolved in the liquid in the zone extending from the agitation means to the surface of the liquid. The said process is particularly suitable for oxidations which make use of considerable quantities of oxygen or of ozone. It is particularly applied for the oxidation of papermaking liquors.

Abstract: A bioremediation method and system for destroying of reducing the level of contaminants in a contaminated subterranean body of water includes a plurality of spaced injection sites. The injection sites extend below ground and intersect a body of groundwater. Each of the plurality of injection sites are in communication with a supply of concentrated oxygen. The oxygen is conveyed by a delivery mechanism from the supply of oxygen to the injection points to naturally reduce the contaminants in the groundwater.

Abstract: Mediated electrochemical oxidation to treats, oxidizes and destroys biological waste, medical, infectious, pathological, animal, sanitary, mortuary, ship, veterinary, pharmaceutical and combined waste. Electrolytes contain oxidized forms of reversible redox couples produced. Oxidized forms of redox couples are produced by anodic oxidation or reaction with oxidized forms of other redox couples. Oxidized species of the redox couples oxidize the biological waste molecules and are reduced and reoxidized. The redox cycle continues until all oxidizable waste and intermediate reaction products have undergone oxidation. Temperatures between ambient and 100° C. avoid formation of dioxins or furans.

Abstract: An electroanalytical apparatus defining a Static Mercury Drop Electrode cell which includes a capillary tube at the end of which is formed mercury drops to constitute the working electrode including a container for continuously receiving and collecting mercury that has formed said working electrode and has become contaminated, a purifying vessel positioned in fixed relationship to the capillary tube, conduit means for continuously transferring mercury into the purifying vessel from the container, means for introducing highly oxygenated water into the purifying vessel at a location above the mercury collected in the vessel such that surface contact is established between said highly oxygenated water and the mercury collected in the purifying vessel, and means for continuously drawing mercury from the purifying vessel and feeding it as purified mercury to the capillary tube.

Abstract: An oxidizing species is described herein as a reaction product through an in situ preparation combining a protonizable phosphorus or sulfur compound, and a halide source at controlled proportions in an aqueous, non-aqueous, gel, aerosol, solid-phase or powdered media. The oxidizing species can be used to reduce microbial and viral populations on a surface or object or in a body or stream of water. The invention thus finds applications as a bleach, sanitizer, oxidant, or in any other application in which an oxidizing agent can be beneficially used alone or in a formulation.

Abstract: A chemical decontamination apparatus an oxidizing solution reservoir for storing oxidizing agent decontamination agent of a decontamination tank subsequent to oxidizing decontamination, a reducing solution reservoir for storing reducing agent decontamination agent of the aforementioned decontamination tank subsequent to reducing agent decontamination, and a transfer pump for mutual transfer of decontamination agent between the aforementioned decontamination tank and reservoir; and is designed to permit repeated use of decontamination agent.

Abstract: There is disclosed a co-oxidation method and a reagent system of co-oxidation agents for removing from a contaminated zone below the ground surface a water-immiscible organic compound having a density greater than that of water from a contaminated zone below the ground surface, comprising the steps of (a) injecting into the contaminated zone a solution of at least one inorganic permanganate salt, (b) injecting into the zone a cosolvent compatible with the inorganic permanganate salt, (c) causing reaction of the permanganate salt with the water-immiscible organic compound, and (d) extracting co-oxidant from the contaminated zone, thereby diminishing the level of water-immiscible organic compound present in the contaminated zone.

Abstract: An oxygenated water dispensing system and method of operating the same for dispensing oxygen enriched water from at least one water source. Upon insertion of a payment into a payment acceptor system, a portion of oxygenated water is dispensed. In a second embodiment, a water source, either pressurized or non-pressurized in operatively attached to a soda fountain for dispensing water having an enhanced oxygen content.

Abstract: A process is described for the biological treatment of waste water containing ammonia, wherein the waste water is treated with sludge containing nitrifying bacteria in an aerated reactor, applying a sludge retention time in the reactor which favours nitrite-producing bacteria over nitrate-producing bacteria. The process is characterised by applying a hydraulic retention time in a continuously operated reactor, which is shorter than the sludge retention time as a result of part of the sludge being separated from the reactor effluent and being returned to the reactor. The performance of the nitrification is further improved by applying low oxygen and nitrite concentrations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to removal of organic pollutants from aqueous effluent streams. The present invention provides a method of destructively oxidising an organic compound present in an aqueous solution, the method comprising oxidising the organic compound in the presence of a catalyst which contains uranium. The catalyst may comprise a uranium oxide. The reaction may be carried out at low temperature, e.g. ambient temperature. The method may be used to treat aqueous effluent streams to remove organic compounds from the stream.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating raw contaminated water includes a housing including a separator element. The separator includes a membrane which prevents flow of contaminants and allows flow of water such that raw water passing over the membrane passes through the membrane while contaminants are excluded. A gas injection system is used to inject gas into the contaminated water stream prior to entering in a concentration chamber.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to obtaining dynamic wet pressure in a wastewater treatment plant. A difusser submerged in wastewater is connected to an air supply. This diffuser has an air flow regulator, a diffusion element to discharge the air into the wastewater, and a plenum situated between the element and the flow regulator. Pressure taps sense pressure in the pipe and the plenum. Manometers are used to determine hydrostatic head, pressure drop across the element, and pressure drop across the air flow regulator. Air flow regulator pressure drop and pressure/flow characteristics may be used, with other required information, to calculate dynamic wet pressure across the diffusion element.

Abstract: Heated and pressurized reactant material is caused to come into contact with oxidant in an initial contact zone (Z) within a contactor. vessel (11). This initial contact zone is removed from the walls of the vessel and the structure through which the reactant material is introduced into the vessel. Once in the contactor vessel (11), the temperature of the reactant material is elevated to critical temperature or near critical temperature in at least portions of the initial contact zone. Sulfates and similar ions liberated in the oxidation reaction form salts and precipitate from solution generally in. the initial contact. zone removed from the contactor vessel walls and then tend not to adhere to equipment at points downstream from the initial contact zone.

Abstract: An improved method of treating wastewater to remove ammonia and fluoride is provided. The method comprises the steps of chemical destruction of ammonia with an oxidizing agent, followed by treatment with calcium salts to precipitate insoluble calcium fluoride, and filtration to remove the precipitate.

Abstract: Spherical particles having a size on the order of 0.1 to 100 microns in size are created by systems and devices of several types. The device includes a source of a stream of gas which is forced through a liquid held under pressure in a pressure chamber with an exit opening therein. The stream of gas surrounded by the liquid in the pressure chamber flows out of an exit orifice of the chamber into a liquid thereby creating a monodispersion of bubbles with substantially uniform diameter. The bubbles are small in size and produced with a relatively small amount of energy relative to comparable systems. Small particles of liquid may also be produced. Applications of the technology range from oxygenating sewage with monodispersions of bubbles to inhalation therapy with monodisperse aerosol dispersions of pharmaceutically active drugs.

Abstract: A water purification system and method suitable for use in swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, water storage tanks, wells and water cooling towers adds (i) an oxidizing agent, preferably granulated or caked chlorine, (ii) metal ions, preferably silver from a galvanic cell having a silver anode electrically connected to a cathode made from a metal of still higher electrochemical potential, normally platinum, and, optionally (iii) an algaecide, preferably chelated copper and/or phosphate-removing compound, and/or (iv) a phosphate-reducing compound, all in synergistic combination. The galvanic cell is preferably some tens of square centimeters in size and some tens of grams in weight, thereby liberating sufficient silver or copper ions so as to aid in treating a multi-thousand liter body of water, such as a swimming pool, for, typically under normal contamination, some weeks to months until the anode is consumed.

Abstract: A cost-effective broad temperature method for removing troublesome low valent sulfur compounds from aqueous streams. The process utilizes sulfur dioxide, oxygen and at least one metal catalyst (which may be added to or already entrained in the aqueous stream) to oxidize the low valent sulfur compounds.

Abstract: Novel methods and devices for synthesizing ferrate and uses thereof are described. One aspect of the invention relates to synthesizing ferrate at a site proximal to the site of use, another aspect of the invention relates to devices and methods for synthesizing ferrate.

Abstract: In a method of removing organic and biological contaminants from a liquid, an oxidizing gas is formed into sub-micron size bubbles which are dispersed into an initially contaminated liquid, after which the treated liquid is recovered. The oxidizing gas is preferably selected from a group including ozone and chlorine dioxide and is utilized immediately upon its manufacture. An oxidizing liquid may be employed in conjunction with the oxidizing gas. The method may be practiced repeatedly. A base may be added to the contaminated liquid to raise the pH thereof.

Abstract: A water purification plant for a swimming pool is provided with a filtering apparatus having a filtering circuit in which a filter and a pump are incorporated and via which water from the swimming pool can be circulated. In a further circuit arranged parallel to at least a part of the filtering circuit, a UV reactor is incorporated. Further, supply members for an oxidizing and disinfecting agent are present. The oxidant in the UV reactor is introduced into the water flowing through said reactor.

Abstract: A vertical membrane storage system including a flexible membrane housing having an upper enclosed portion capable of storing a fluid and a lower open portion for receiving the fluid is disclosed. The storage system also includes a flotation tube disposed above and connected to the upper enclosed portion, and an anchor having receiving means for receiving a fluid disposed concentrically therein, whereby the anchor is connected to and encloses the lower open portion of the flexible membrane. The vertical membrane storage system can be used for storing a variety of fluids including, but not limited to, overflow sewage, oil-contaminated water, and the like.

Abstract: Fibrous textile articles possessing enhanced antimicrobial properties are prepared by the deposition or interstitial precipitation of tetrasilver tetroxide (Ag4O4) crystals within the interstices of fibers, yarns and/or fabrics forming such articles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process of oxidation, of the wet oxidation or ozonization type, of a liquid contained in a reactor. The gas of the gas headspace is aspirated into the liquid, and the portion which is not dissolved in the liquid is recovered in the gas headspace. The agitation means creates a flow of liquid immediately adjacent to the end of the duct opening into the liquid, and generates a gas/liquid dispersion in the zone, within which the liquid reacts with the gas, then conveys and ejects the said dispersion at its periphery, such that the gas is dissolved in the liquid in the zone extending from the agitation means to the surface of the liquid. The said process is particularly suitable for oxidations which make use of considerable quantities of oxygen or of ozone. It is particularly applied for the oxidation of papermaking liquors.

Abstract: A hot water extraction process for extracting bitumen from tar sands is taught using a conditioning agent containing sodium sesquicarbonate. The conditioning agent replaces the caustic soda agent previously used in tar sand extraction. The use of sodium sesquicarbonate substantially eliminates the production of sludge in tar sand extraction and maintains or improves bitumen recovery. The process allows for hot conditioning agent solution to be recycled to the process by use of a recycle storage tank.

Abstract: The present process proceeds from an aqueous reaction solution containing a chlorite and a halogen-free oxidizing agent which is present in an excess of up to double the required stoichiometric amount. The pH of the reaction solution is set at between 5.5 and 9.5, preferably between 6 and 9, and the reaction solution is reacted at ambient temperature until almost all the chlorite has been converted into chlorine dioxide. In this way a chlorine dioxide-containing solution is obtained which is free not only from residual chlorite but also from chlorate and other undesirable by-products and can be used directly as such in water treatment. Preferably an aqueous chlorite solution with a pH or more than 9.5 and an aqueous solution of the oxidizing agent are mixed with one another in order to produce the reaction solution, the pH of the aqueous mixture being adjusted by means of a proton donor present in the oxidizing agent solution.