Molecular understanding of nutrient and organic sorption on model mineral surfaces
EMSL Project ID
51428
Abstract
This proposal aims to obtain molecular understanding of the sorption of nitrogen (N) oxyanions and model organic species on model mineral surfaces, and ultimately provide better constraints in modeling the fate of these species in soils and water sources. We aim to: 1) understand the role of crystallographic facet and crystal defects on oxyanion and organic sorption, 2) provide direct evidence for electron transfer to adsorbed species and the molecular configuration of adsorbates, and 3) extend this understanding from model surfaces to estimate the N- and organic capacity for nanoparticles. We will employ a multimodal in situ approach to investigate the sorption of N-oxyanions and organics by infrared spectroscopy, atomic force and electron microscopy, and ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to elucidate the molecular interactions that occur at the mineral/water interface. Together with modeling, these techniques will elucidate the molecular nature and adsorption geometry of species such as nitrate and model organics on ubiquitous iron (Fe)-containing minerals including hematite and magnetite.
Project Details
Project type
Large-Scale EMSL Research
Start Date
2020-10-01
End Date
2022-09-30
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Co-Investigator(s)
Team Members