Sodium permanganate (NaMnO₄) and potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) are also utilized by GCI during treatment programs to reduce contaminant concentrations. Permanganate is a strong oxidizer, but not as strong as the hydroxyl free radical generated by Fenton’s reagent. The exact chemical reaction is dependent upon the organic contaminants present and the oxidant utilized. For example, trichloroethene (C₂HCl₃) is oxidized by sodium permanganate to form carbon dioxide (CO₂), manganese dioxide (MnO₂), sodium ions (Na ⁺), hydronium ion (H ⁺), and chloride ions (Cl ^-), according to the reaction:

Permanganates are best used to treat low concentrations of the following contaminants: Chlorinated Ethenes (PCE, TCE, DCE, and VC) Explosives Permanganates do not readily oxidize: Petroleum hydrocarbons (benzene). Permanganates will oxidize the side chains of the petroleum hydrocarbons (requires heat) but will not oxidize the benzene ring. Chlorinated Ethanes (1,1,1-TCA) NAPL

Limitations of Permanganate		Strengths of Permanganate
	Does not oxidize petroleum hydrocarbons and ethanes		Low concentrations of dissolved chlorinated solvents (ethenes)
	Cannot break down NAPL (manganese dioxide issues)		High alkalinity / carbonate areas
	Contaminant concentrations >1% solubility		Not sensitive to pH
	Tighter soils (clays)		Time and cost savings
	Shallow contamination (grade to ~5 ft)		Areas with utilities
			Longer persistence in subsurface