Current understanding and challenges for the utilisation of pyrite for environmental remediation: a review

Pyrite (FeS2) is the most abundant sulfide mineral in the Earth's crust, with a wide distribution. Commonly found in mining tailings, pyrite is a readily available and cost-effective material. Its unique composition, oxidation, and adsorption properties have made it a promising material for environmental pollution control. This review article examines the use of pyrite in environmental remediation efforts. How pyrite serves as a Fenton-like reagent, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) in photo-Fenton-like, electro-Fenton-like, photo-electro-Fenton-like, and mediated persulfate systems are discussed. The article also reviews the specific interactions between pyrite and natural organic substances, such as cyanotoxins. Additionally, the use of pyrite as an adsorbent for capturing toxic elements is described. The potential of pyrite in reducing nitrogen and phosphate levels to alleviate water eutrophication is summarised. The future research directions for the application of pyrite in environmental management is proposed. The goal of this review is to offer innovative ideas for enhancing pollutant treatment technologies and developing cost-effective, high-performance methods for environmental remediation.