Fenton reaction

Fenton's Reaction is a mechanism for iron to catalyze the formation of oxygen radicals, which are then readily oxidize wort or beer components. More specifically, iron(II)-ions are oxidized to iron(III) by hydrogen peroxide, forming a hydroxyl radical and a hydroxyl ion. The iron(III) eventually reacts with a further molecule of hydrogen peroxide generating two protons and a superoxide radical. These superoxide radicals can also react with copper(II)-ions to copper(I) and oxygen in the Haber-Weiss reaction scheme.

Fe2+ + H2O2 → Fe3+ + OH• + OH–
Fe3+ + H2O2 → Fe2+ + O2– + 2H+
Net: 2H2O2 → OH• + OH– + O2– + 2H+

See also

• Iron
• Oxidation