Haber-Weiss reaction

From Brewing Forward

Haber-Weiss Reaction is a mechanism for copper to catalyze the formation of oxygen radicals.

Cu2+ + O2 → Cu+ + O2
Cu+ + H2O2 → Cu2+ + OH• + OH
Net: H2O2 + O2 → OH• + OH + O2

The Haber-Weiss reaction consists of a Fenton reaction coupled with a reaction between oxidized metal ion and superoxide, the superoxide thus serving to recycle the metal through its Fenton-active, reduced state.[1]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. Irwin AJ, Barker RL, Pipasts P. The Role of Copper, Oxygen, and Polyphenols in Beer Flavor Instability. J Am Soc Brew Chem. 1991;49(3):140–149.