Enzymatic Removal of Aqueous Pentachlorophenol

© 2010 by Taylor and Francis Group, LLC. Pentachlorophenol (PCP) has been used extensively as a pesticide, herbicide, and wood-preserving agent at many wood treating sites. The chemical structure of PCP is shown in Figure 17.1. It is a probable human carcinogen and has been placed on the U.S. EPA priority pollutant list. Its presence in the environment is therefore of particular concern. In recent years many countries have banned the use of PCP. Unfortunately, past legal disposal practices coupled with the environmental stability of PCP have led to widespread contamination of soil, surface water, and groundwater aquifers. Many of the more than 700 wood preserving sites identified in the U.S. are currently being dealt with under federal, state, or voluntary cleanup programs.1.