The Mineral–Water Interface

June 2013, Vol. 9, No. 3

Reactions occurring at mineral–water interfaces are central to geochemical processes. They affect a wide range of important environmental issues, such as the composition of natural waters, weathering and soil formation, element cycling, biomineralization (including minor-element incorporation), acid mine drainage, and nuclear waste disposal. Recent studies using state-of-the-art spectroscopic and microscopic techniques have characterized the molecular structure of mineral surfaces, the distribution of fluids near surfaces, and dynamic processes such as dissolution, growth, and mineral replacement. These studies provide insights into the kinetics and mechanisms of reactions occurring at mineral surfaces, and they test the validity of predictions based on theory. These recent advances constitute the central theme of this issue of Elements. Modeling approaches used in mechanistic studies are also introduced. Such approaches complement direct, in situ, molecular-scale observations of processes occurring at mineral–water interfaces.

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Order your copy of the June 2013 issue of Elements magazine today and investigate the mineral-water interface.