Based on previous studies, contaminant ions such as lead (Pb) incorporate and adsorb at the   barite (001)-water interface. EDTA is a chelating agent that binds to metals and may change the sorption behavior of Pb at barite interfaces by binding to Pb or surface bariums. Resonant and non-resonant x-ray reflectivity techniques were used to compare changes in surface structure of the (001) surface and sorption of Pb to that surface. X-ray reflectivity (XR) measurements taken in the absence of EDTA reveal changes in the surface structure as Pb concentration increases. Similar measurements in the presence of EDTA show more significant structural changes, presumably a function of EDTA binding to the mineral surface. <i>In situ</i> resonant anomalous x-ray reflectivity (RAXR) was used to determine element specific behavior and shows both incorporation and adsorption at the surface both with and without EDTA. However, only about half as much Pb sorbs in the presence of EDTA as compared to the absence. In both cases, incorporation is limited to the topmost barite layer.

EDTA inhibits lead sorption at the barite (001)-water interface

ACS Fall 2021

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