Accumulation of metals by plants: geochemical and technological consequences

The review describes the phenomenon of phytomining, that is, accumulation of metals, including noble and rare-earth elements, by plants. Kinetic modelling is used to explore the process dynamics, which has a two-compartment nature. In terms the widely accepted concept of the plant origin of coal, the role of metal phytomining in the formation of coal deposits is analyzed, demonstrating the effect of accumulation of toxic metals in plants near coal mining areas and in industrial waste dumps. The metal contents of natural coals and ash and slag waste of coal-fired power plants in Russia are analyzed. The challenges of metal extraction by the conversion of technogenic mineral deposits are discussed. Data on the nature and kinetics of phytomining and on the geochemical and technological consequences of this global natural phenomenon are summarized and analyzed for the first time. <br> The bibliography includes 107 references.