Knowledge Bank

Isomerization of peroxyl radicals ROO via hydrogen self-abstraction to form hydroperoxyl radicals QOOH (eg. $CH3CH2OO\to CH2CH2OOH$) is a crucial step in hydrocarbon combustion. However, the kinetic measurements are difficult and definitive rate constants for ROO ismomerisation are rare. In addition, the role of the QOOH radicals in hydrocarbon combustion is not well understood. We have computed the activation energy barriers and unimolecular rate constants, using $BHandHLYP/6-31G\ast \ast$ and transition state theory methods for the cyclization of a series of QOOH radicals (containing 2 to 5 carbon atoms) resulting in the formation of a cyclic ether and the elimination of an OH radical. The computations predict that cyclization of QOOH to form a 3-membered ring (e.g. cyclization of $CH2CH2OOH$ to form oxirane) is a dominant channel of unimolecular decomposition for QOOH. For example, the computations predict a constant rate of $8.24\times 108s-1$ for the cyclization of $CH3CH2CH2CHCH2OOH$ at 700 K. Analysis of the vibrational modes of the transition state structures suggests that there is rotational excitation of the OH radical. These reactions are therefore amenable to experimental investigation by spectroscopic measurement of OH concentrations.