Modeling the interactions between humics, ions, and mineral surfaces

Model VI and the NICA-Donnan model are two successful models presently available for describing metal ion binding by humic materials. Both models deal with the complexity of the underlying processes (intrinsic heterogeneity, partial correlation between affinity distributions, variable stoichiometry, electrostatics) in a pragmatic way. The parameters of the NICA-Donnan model and their determination are discussed. The current interpretation of the ion-specific "non-ideality" parameters, n(i), found in the NICA-Donnan model, emphasizes their role in determining the stoichiometry for the competitive binding of ions. The ratio n(M)/n(H) is reflected in the corresponding exchange ratios and the pH dependence of the metal ion binding. Experimental complications occur in testing models. Although Model VI and the NICA-Donnan models have much in common, there are differences that may become more apparent as the models are more widely tested. Recently ion binding to complexes of humics and oxides has been described by combining the NICA-Donnan model (ion binding to humics) with the CD-MUSIC model (ion binding to oxides). The impact of humic to oxide binding on both cation and anion binding is briefly discussed.