Influence of Fe2+-catalysed iron oxide recrystallization on metal cycling

Abstract

Recent work has indicated that iron (oxyhydr-)oxides are capable of structurally incorporating and releasing metals and nutrients as a result of Fe2+-induced iron oxide recrystallization. In the present paper, we briefly review the current literature examining the mechanisms by which iron oxides recrystallize and summarize how recrystallization affects metal incorporation and release. We also provide new experimental evidence for the Fe2+-induced release of structural manganese from manganese-doped goethite. Currently, the exact mechanism(s) for Fe2+-induced recrystallization remain elusive, although they are likely to be both oxide- and metal-dependent. We conclude by discussing some future research directions for Fe2+-catalysed iron oxide recrystallization. ©The Authors Journal compilation ©2012 Biochemical Society.