Particulate matter as scavenger and carrier of trace metals in simulated mine water

The influence of iron (originally as Fe(II), at mg/L-level) on the distribution of trace elements (Cu, Zn, Pb and As) between suspended particulate matter (size above 0.2 μm) and water was investigated in a laboratory study. scavenging of the trace elements by precipitating iron oxyhydroxides was rapid (reaction within hours) and ranging from 35% to 90% uptake of As, Cu and Pb, in the absence of dissolved organic matter. The presence of a humic acid had a negative influence on the particle growth rate, as well as on the association of the trace elements with the precipitating iron phase.