Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026

Experimental Column Setup for Studying Anaerobic Biogeochemical Interactions Between Iron OxyHydroxides, Trace Elements, and Bacteria
Published on: December 19, 2017
An overview of the role of goethite surfaces in the environment
Haibo Liu1, Tianhu Chen2, Ray L Frost3
1Laboratory for Nanomineralogy and Environmental Material, School of Resources & Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, China; School of Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering, Science and Engineering Faculty, Queensland University of Technology, Australia.
Abstract:
Goethite, one of the most thermodynamically stable iron oxides, has been extensively researched especially the structure (including surface structure), the adsorption capacity to anions, organic/organic acid (especially for the soil organic carbon) and cations in the natural environment and its potential application in environmental protection. For example, the adsorption of heavy metals by goethite can decrease the concentration of heavy metals in aqueous solution and immobilize; the adsorption to soil organic carbon can decrease the release of carbon and fix carbon. In this present overview, the possible physicochemical properties of the goethite surface contributing to the strong affinity of goethite to nutrients and contaminants in natural environment are reported. Moreover, these chemicals adsorbed by goethite were also summarized and the suggested adsorption mechanism for these adsorbates was elucidated, which will help us understand the role of goethite in natural environment and provide some information about goethite as an absorbent. In addition, the feasibility of goethite used as catalyst carrier and the precursor of NZVI was proposed for removal of environmental pollution.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Microbes and Other Elemental Cycles
Microbes and the Sulfur Cycle
Origin of Photosynthesis
Acid Mine Drainage
The Sulfur Cycle
Microbial Bioremediation of Uranium

