A kinetic study of the oxidation of arsenopyrite in acidic solutions: implications for the environment

Arsenopyrite, while an important raw material in industry, is a health hazard when released in large quantities from mines to oxidizing waters. To better understand the rate at which such oxidation occurs, kinetic experiments on arsenopyrite oxidation in ferric sulfate solutions were conducted in a mixed flow reactor. Oxidation rates appear to increase with increasing concentrations of dissolved ferric sulfate and temperature. The arsenic form released during oxidation and conversion rate to other forms are discussed. These and other findings suggest that mining of arsenopyrite-bearing ores can contaminate groundwater with arsenic at levels that could be toxic to humans and animals. health.