Oxidation of anthracene using waste Mn oxide minerals: The importance of wetting and drying sequences

► Oxidation of anthracene by Mn oxide waste minerals is shown for first time. ► Oxidation occurs when anthracene-spiked mineral slurries are evaporated to dryness. ► Wetting and drying sequences in anthracene to anthraquinone conversion are explored. ► Climate change means that wetting and drying sequences are becoming more pronounced. ► Results have important implications for contaminated land remediation technologies.