Iron Pyrites (Iron II disulfide; FeS2)

Iron Pyrite/iron disulfide, distributed by Hepure, is a pure, finely grained, mono-crystalline of iron pyrites (FeS₂).   Like zero valent iron (ZVI), iron disulfide can degrade numerous chlorinated hydrocarbons completely into non-contaminated hydrocarbon or sulfur compounds via a reductive elimination process. The main reaction products are adsorbed on the hydrophobic surface of sulfide and not diffuse in the groundwater. The dichlorination rates per unit surface area by pyrite are fast enough for remediation of soil and groundwater.

Here are some applications for environmental remediation:

1. Heavy Metal Removal: Iron disulfide has been used to remove heavy metals from water. Its surface can adsorb heavy metals, thereby reducing their concentration in contaminated water. This is particularly useful in treating wastewater from industrial processes that may contain metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic.
2. Acid Mine Drainage Treatment: Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a major environmental problem associated with mining activities. It occurs when sulfide minerals in rocks are exposed to air and water, leading to the formation of sulfuric acid. Iron pyrite can be used to treat AMD through a process known as “passive treatment,” where pyrite reacts with the contaminated water to increase its pH and decrease its acidity, thereby mitigating the environmental impact of AMD.
3. Photocatalytic Applications: Iron pyrite has been explored as a photocatalyst in environmental remediation. Under light irradiation, pyrite can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) capable of degrading organic pollutants in water. This photocatalytic activity makes it a promising material for the treatment of organic contaminants in water, such as dyes and pharmaceuticals.
4. Sulfur Dioxide Reduction: Iron pyrite can be used to remove sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from gas emissions. In thermal power plants and other industrial processes that burn fossil fuels, SO₂ is a major pollutant. Pyrite can react with SO₂ in flue gases to form sulfur and iron oxide, reducing the emission of SO₂ into the atmosphere and thus contributing to air quality improvement.
5. Soil Remediation: Iron pyrite has also been investigated for its potential in soil remediation, particularly in immobilizing contaminants to prevent their uptake by plants. This can be beneficial in agricultural areas contaminated with heavy metals, helping to reduce the transfer of these metals into the food chain.

Packaging

Hepure supplies ferrous disulfide in packaging from 50 lb. paper bags, 2,000 lb. supersacks or bulk truck. All packages are loaded on pallets and stretch wrapped to protect the product.

Safety

Stable under normal conditions, but incompatible with oxidizing agents. Hazardous decomposition products include iron oxides and sulfur oxides, such as sulfuric acid.