Formation of toxic products from a #2 fuel oil by photooxidation

Oxygenated compounds toxic to Baker's yeast and relatively soluble in water are formed upon simulated environmental ultraviolet irradiation of a no. 2 fuel oil. Toxicity reaches a maximum within 24 hr and appears to be due principally to reactive peroxides. Upon continued irradiation, other classes of toxic compounds are produced. Carbonyl compounds and phenols increase at approximately linear rates for at least seven days. Acids present include some with phenolic substituents.