Toward understanding the role of individual fluorescent components in DOM-metal binding

► We examine metal binding nature of individual DOM fractions from landfill leachates. ► A combined approach of chemical isolation, EEM quenching and PARAFAC was employed. ► Fluorescent substances in HyI fraction did not play as important a role as HS did. ► Proteinaceous materials in humic acids were found to be responsible for Cd binding. ► The risk of aged leachate as a carrier of heavy metal should not be overlooked.