Abstract
1,4-Dioxane is classified as a probable human carcinogen. It is used as a stabilizer for chlorinated solvents, particularly, 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA), and it is formed as a by-product during the manufacture
of polyester and various polyethoxylated compounds. Improper disposal of industrial waste and accidental solvent spills have resulted in the contamination of groundwater with 1,4-dioxane. Volatilization
and sorption are not significant attenuation mechanisms due to 1,4-dioxane's complete miscibility with water. At present, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are the only proven technology for 1,4-dioxane
treatment. 1,4-Dioxane was believed to be very resistant to both abiotic and biologically mediated degradation due to its heterocyclic structure with two ether linkages. However, recent studies have shown
that 1,4-dioxane can be biodegraded as a sole carbon and energy source, and that cost-effective biological treatment processes can be developed. Future work should be oriented towards the development of
better information on the extent of 1,4-dioxane contamination in the environment and of full-scale biological treatment processes. In addition, the application of chemical oxidation for
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