Chemical structure of humic acids - Part 1, a generalized structural model

R.L. Wershaw; D.J. Pinckney; S.E. Booker

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Chemical structure of humic acids - Part 1, a generalized structural model

R.L. Wershaw·D.J. Pinckney·S.E. Booker

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Abstract

A new model is proposed for the structure of humic acids. In this model humic acid is pictured as being made up of a hierarchy of structural elements. At the lowest level in this hierarchy are simple phenolic, quinoid, and benzene carboxylic acid groups. These groups are bonded covalently into small particles. Particles of similar chemical structure are linked together by weak bonds to form "homogeneous" aggregates. Two or more different types of aggregates may be linked together to form mixed aggregates. Complexes of humic acid and clay minerals are also formed.

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R.L. Wershaw, D.J. Pinckney, S.E. Booker. 1977. Chemical structure of humic acids - Part 1, a generalized structural model. https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/70163071

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