Sequestration of metals through association with pyrite in subtidal sediments of the Nanpaishui Estuary on the Western Bank of the Bohai Sea, China

► Pyritization was a function of multiple variables. ► Oxidizing conditions constrained pyritization in the upper 25 cm of sediment. ► Pyritization patterns were similar to those of acid volatile sulfur and pyrite metal. ► Pyritization and trace metal pyritization were highly correlated in most cases. ► Metal transformations were consistent with a dissolution/precipitation mechanism.