Unveiling the Influence of Antimony Substitution on the Surface Properties and Adsorption Behavior of Ferrihydrite: From Molecular Mechanisms to Environmental Implications

Antimony(V) substitution is common in secondary ferrihydrite, especially in mining areas and tailings. However, its impact on the adsorption behavior of ferrihydrite is still unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the influential mechanisms of Sb(V) substitution on the lattice structure and surface properties of Sb-substituted ferrihydrite (SbFh), and its adsorption of coexisting Sb(OH)6–. Antimony(V) is substituted at Fe1 sites and is primarily distributed on the surface. Substitution has opposing effects on the outer- and inner-sphere complexation of Sb(OH)6–. On one hand, substituted-Sb(V) transfers more positive charges to ≡FeOH, reducing the number of H bonds. Subsequently, the charge saturation of ≡FeOH decreases, surface charge increases, and outer-sphere complexation is promoted. On the other hand, the elevated bond valence of Sb–O increases charge saturation of ≡FeOH, reducing the charge capacity that ≡FeOH can accommodate from inner-sphere complexes. Thus, inner-sphere complexation is inhibited. Inner-sphere complexation plays a more important role, and Sb(OH)6– adsorption is inhibited. Additionally, the primary complexation modes of Sb(OH)6– transform from bidentate to monodentate complexation. This research has important implications for understanding the environmental behavior of ferrihydrite, as well as the fate and bioavailability of antimony in mining areas and tailings.