The objective of this DOE-supported project is to understand the surface chemistry of pyrite. This project is a collaborative effort between Schoonen's group and Dr. Daniel Strongin's Surface Chemistry Research Group at Temple University , Philadelphia, U.S.A. Pyrite is the most abundant metal sulfide mineral on Earth. Pyrite, also known as fool's gold, is a common ore mineral.
Some pyrite contains small amounts of gold and is mined for that reason.
In most mining operations, however, pyrite is of no value and needs to be separated from other metal sulfides. The pyrite waste created in mining operations presents a significant environmental problem. Exposed to the atmosphere, pyrite oxidizes and very acid, metal-laden waters form. In order to improve separation of pyrite from other metals as well as for the development of new strategies to inhibit oxidation of pyrite it is necessary to understand its surface chemistry. This project is unique because it combines two very different approaches.