Removal of arsenite(As(III)) and arsenate(As(V)) by synthetic pyrite (FeS2): Synthesis, effect of contact time, and sorption/desorption envelopes

► Rapid synthesis of pyrite by hydrothermal method. ► Faster removal of As(V) than removal of As(V) by synthesized pyrite. ► Higher removal of As(III) at higher pH and pH range between 8 and 9 for As(V). ► Moderate irreversibility in As(III) sorption/desorption. ► Moderate to high levels of irreversibility in As(V) sorption/desorption.