The estimation of the photodegradation of organic compounds by hydroxyl radical reaction rate constants obtained from nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy chemical shift data

The use of nuclear magnetic resonance chemical shift data for predicting the rate of photodegradation of organic chemicals in air, due to reaction with hydroxyl radicals, has been critically examined. Relationships between the average ¹³C or ¹H chemical shift and the hydroxyl radical rate constant have been studied for a wide range of compounds. Recommendations regarding the utility of the procedure are made.