Comparison of pyrite (FeS2) synthesis mechanisms to reproduce natural FeS2 nanoparticles found at hydrothermal vents

Here we report the synthesis of pyrite in micrometer and nanometer sizes and with varied morphology. The purpose of these syntheses was to mimic natural pyrite nanoparticles recently found at hydrothermal vents, and to better understand the formation processes of these nano and micrometer sized particles. The duration of synthesis, surfactant used, and chemical mechanism of pyrite formation were all found to have an effect on resultant size and morphology. Yields of pyrite were sometimes low as our goal was to stop growth quickly after nucleation, in order to mimic hot vent fluids (350 °C) emanating to cold ocean bottom waters (2 °C). Natural nanoparticles forming under these conditions have currently been identified at diverse hydrothermal vents including Lau Basin, the Mid Atlantic Ridge (MAR), and the East Pacific Rise (EPR). These natural nanoparticles were variable in size and morphology, with aggregates of 50-350 nm diameter being the most prevalent. Syntheses occurring via the H2S pathway mimicked natural nanoparticles more closely than syntheses via the polysulfide pathway. One synthesis reported is suggestive of a pyrite/pyrrhotite equilibrium, indicating that we have succeeded in mimicking redox conditions similar to those that occur at certain hydrothermal vents.