Role of Coupled Redox Transformations in the Mobilization and Sequestration of Arsenic

摘要

Arsenic occurrence in groundwater, particularly in South and Southeast Asia, has had profoundly deleterious impacts on human health. To address this tragedy, extensive research has been conducted on the biogeochemical cycling of arsenic and its consequences for arsenic mobilization and sequestration. This research has elucidated a key role of microorganisms in redox transformations and the importance of iron and sulfur minerals as carrier phases for arsenic. Research gaps remain, particularly with regard to determining in situ rates of redox transformations and the coupled influence of hydrologic and biogeochemical processes on arsenic occurrence and mobility. Despite these gaps, the insights of this research can be applied to mitigate human exposure through improved water resources management as well as through treatment and remediation.