Tellurium Distribution and Speciation in Contaminated Soils from Abandoned Mine Tailings: Comparison with Selenium

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b00955
• Publication Date: 2017-04-20T20:32:59Z
• Authors: Hai-Bo Qin; Yasuo Takeichi; Hiroaki Nitani; Yasuko Terada; Yoshio Takahashi
• Keywords: Genetic algorithm; Tellurium

The distribution and chemical species of tellurium (Te) in contaminated soil were determined by a combination microfocused X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF), diffraction (μ-XRD), absorption fine structure (μ-XAFS) techniques. Results showed that Te was present as mixture Te(VI) Te(IV) species, while selenium (Se) predominantly the form Se(IV) abandoned mine tailings. In soil, Fe(III) hydroxides host phases for Se(IV), Te(IV), Te(VI), but could be also retained illite. difference speciation solubility Se can result from different structures surface complexes onto hydroxides. Furthermore, our results suggest retention relatively weaker than due to structural incorporation into These findings are geochemical environmental significance better understanding solubility, mobility, bioavailability environment. To best knowledge, this is first study reporting field μ-XRF–XRD–XAFS