Geochemical processes for mobilization of arsenic in groundwater

Geochemical processes for mobilization of arsenic in groundwater

This paper presents an overview of natural geochemical processes that can mobilize arsenic (As) from aquifer sediments into groundwater. The primary source of As in groundwater is pre-dominantly natural (geogenic), and can be mobilized via complicated biogeochemical interactions within various aquifer solids and water. Oxidation of sulfide minerals such as arsenopyrite, As-substituted pyrite and other sulfide minerals are susceptible to oxidation in near surface environment, and release significant quantities of As from sediments. Reductive dissolution of As-bearing Fe(III) oxides/hydroxides 2and sulfide oxidation are the most common and significant geochemical triggers that tend to release As from aquifer sediments into groundwater. Hence, strengthening direct action and implementation of the best practices to target the safe groundwater sources for installing safe drinking water wells are an urgent necessity for sustainable As mitigation on a global scale.

Copyright © 2016 Taylor and Francis Group, London, UK. All rights reserved. No part of this publication or the information contained herein may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, by photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written prior permission from the publisher.