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Photochemical ROS-Driven Autocatalytic Transformation of Heavy Metal-Xanthate Complex Pollutants in Tailings Pond
Jiacheng Sun1,2,3, Shuchen Tu1,2,3, Zemin Li1,2,3
1School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.
Environmental Science & Technology
|April 9, 2026
Summary
Heavy metal-xanthate complexes (HMXs) undergo photochemical ROS-driven autocatalytic transformation in sunlight, leading to significant environmental risks. This process accelerates over time, impacting mining pollutant control.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Photochemistry
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Heavy metal-xanthate complexes (HMXs) are mining pollutants with complex transformation pathways and ecological risks.
- Solar radiation significantly influences HMX transformation in tailings ponds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reveal the overlooked photochemical ROS-driven autocatalytic transformation pathway of HMXs.
- To investigate the conversion pathways and kinetics of cadmium-xanthate (CdX).
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive material characterization and substance analysis.
- Electrochemical measurements, oxygen activation monitoring, and quantum chemical calculations.
- Solar exposure experiments over 28 days.
Main Results:
- 94.93% of CdX transformed after 28 days of solar exposure.
- Autocatalytic kinetics followed a logistic model, with half-lives varying for ZnX (4.3 days), CdX (19.2 days), and PbX (23.6 days).
- Light-induced charge carriers in CdX initiated ROS production, converting CdX to CdS, which further enhanced photochemical activity.
Conclusions:
- CdS accumulation drives the autocatalytic conversion of HMXs.
- Provides molecular-level insights into HMX transformation mechanisms.
- Offers theoretical foundations for controlling mining-related pollutants.
Keywords:
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