Geochemical Evolution of Antimony Content in Shallow Groundwater After Ecological Restoration Project in Xikuangshan, Hunan Province, China

The ecological restoration project of Xikuangshan (XKS) effectively reduces environmental pollution.However, the hydrogeochemical factors and mechanisms leading to the evolution of antimony (Sb) content in shallow groundwater after ecological restoration have not been studied.In order to investigate the geochemical evolution of Sb content in shallow groundwater, 64 samples were collected before and after the ecological restoration project.The results showed Sb concentrations in shallow groundwater before and after ecological restoration were 0.006-39.160mg/L (mean 3.501 mg/L), and 0.003-17.326mg/L (mean 2.931 mg/L), respectively.The high Sb content before ecological restoration was mainly caused by the oxidation of Sb 2 S 3 , dissolution of carbonate and silicate minerals, evaporation/concentration effects, and cation exchange.The weaker oxidation of Sb 2 S 3 and effective cleaning of the arsenic alkali residue reduced the Sb content in shallow groundwater after ecological restoration.This study provides a basis for understanding the effects of ecological restoration projects on the evolution of Sb content in shallow groundwater, and provides a new idea for solving groundwater pollution and promoting groundwater resources management.