Manganese (Mn) is widely distributed across the earth's surface. In nature, Mn exists in three oxidation states (Mn(II), Mn(III) and Mn(IV)) and readily changes its oxidation state by undergoing biological and mineral surface catalyzed processes. Until recently, the natural occurrence of aqueous Mn(III) was largely under appreciated due to its redox instability (e.g. disproportionation). However, recent studies have demonstrated the existence of substantial amounts of aqueous Mn(III) complexed by ligands, and emphasized its ubiquitous presence in various environments including soil, sediment, marine and estuarine systems. The goal of this project is to develop a mechanistic and quantitative understanding of the formation, stability and reactivity of aqueous Mn(III) species in order to better understand their role in nutrient and contaminant cycling.
*This project is currently funded by the FWF Austrian Science Fund.