Details of Award
NERC Reference : NER/A/S/2003/00526
Geochem of arsenic at mineral-water interface: a molecular understanding from quantum chemistry, x-ray spectroscopy & surface complexation modelling
Grant Award
- Principal Investigator:
- Professor DM Sherman, University of Bristol, Earth Sciences
- Grant held at:
- University of Bristol, Earth Sciences
- Science Area:
- Terrestrial
- Freshwater
- Overall Classification:
- Earth
- ENRIs:
- Pollution and Waste
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental Risks and Hazards
- Science Topics:
- Water Quality
- Pollution
- Hydrogeology
- Soil science
- Abstract:
- Arsenic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental concerns and currently affects over 40 million people. We still have a poor understanding of the geochemical processes that control the solubilities and bioavailability of As in soil, groundwater and acid mine-drainage. Sorption of As(III) and As(V) onto mineral surfaces limits the concentration of As dissolved in aqueous solution. Mineral surfaces may also facilitate the oxidation and reduction of As with consequent changes to its solubility and toxicity. However, these processes are not understood and we have no reliable surface complexation models that allow quantitative predictions of As chemistry in natural waters. The work proposed here is to investigate, at a molecular level, the abiotic chemistry of As at the mineral-water interface. The mechanisms of sorption and the surface-induced redox processes of As(V) and As(III) associated with Fe-Mn oxide and sulfide minerals will be investigated using quantum chemistry and synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy. From this work, we will derive surface complex stability constants that can be used in fate and transport models. The work proposed here is the necessary precursor to an investigation of the biogeochemical processes of As facilitated by microorganisms.
- NERC Reference:
- NER/A/S/2003/00526
- Grant Stage:
- Completed
- Scheme:
- Standard Grants Pre FEC
- Grant Status:
- Closed
- Programme:
- Standard Grant
This grant award has a total value of £166,359
FDAB - Financial Details (Award breakdown by headings)
| Total - T&S | Total - Staff | Total - Other Costs | Total - Indirect Costs | Total - Equipment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £6,267 | £90,043 | £16,533 | £41,419 | £12,097 |
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