Catalytic oxidation effect of MnSO4 on As(III) by air in alkaline solution

Abstract

The catalytic oxidation effect of MnSO4 on As(III) by air in an alkaline solution was investigated. According to the X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis results of the product, it was shown that the introduction of MnSO4 in the form of solution would generate Na0.55Mn2O4·1.5H2O with strong catalytic oxidation ability in the aerobic alkaline solution, whereas the catalytic effect of the other product MnOOH is not satisfactory. Under the optimal reaction conditions of temperature 90°C, As/Mn molar ratio 12.74:1, air flow rate 1.0 L/min, and stirring speed 300 r/min, As(III) can be completely oxidized after 2 hr reaction. The excellent catalytic oxidation ability of MnSO4 on As(III) was mainly attributed to the indirect oxidation of As(III) by the product Na0.55Mn2O4·1.5H2O. This study shows a convenient and efficient process for the oxidation of As(III) in alkali solutions, which has potential application value for the pre-oxidation of arsenic-containing solution or the detoxification of As(III).