Chemiluminescence in the thermal decomposition of dicumyl peroxide

Chemiluminescence accompanying the dicumyl peroxide decomposition in cumene and tetraline with different content of tetralyl hydroperoxide has been studied under nitrogen at 140°C. Simultaneously, the main reaction products of dicumyl peroxide decomposition have been determined chromatographically. Chemiluminescence intensity is proportional to the square root of dicumyl peroxide concentration in the system. Chemiluminescence intensity increases with increasing concentration of tetraline in cumene and also with increasing concentration of tetralyl hydroperoxide. The amount of acetophenone formed decreases. The various elementary processes responsible for the chemiluminescence are suggested.