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Liu H, Guo H, Pourret O, Wang Z. Anthropogenic impact of rare earth elements on groundwater and surface water in the watershed of the largest freshwater lake in China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:175063. [PMID: 39067591 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Limited knowledge exists regarding the potential risks associated with anthropogenic release of rare earth elements (REEs) in the environment. This study aimed to investigate REE signatures in the watershed Poyang Lake, the largest freshwater lake in China. Samples of surface water, wastewater, and groundwater were collected from five rivers discharging into the lake. Results revealed wastewater from wastewater treatment plants contained total REE concentrations from 231 to 904 μg/L, exceeding those found in surface water (0.4 to 1.3 μg/L) and groundwater (0.5 to 416 μg/L). Samples with elevated REE were found in Ca-Mg-Cl/SO4 type waters and exhibited an 18OD deviation from local meteoric water line. Wastewater exhibited a higher positive Gd anomaly compared to surface water and groundwater, attributed to anthropogenic input of Gd (Gdanth). The determined Gdanth concentration ranged from 0.04 to 0.21 μg/L, and from 0.06 to 0.37 μg/L, accounting for 4 % to 21 % and 49 % to 84 % of total Gd concentrations in groundwater and surface water, respectively. Gdanth concentration in wastewater (0.19 to 0.43 μg/L) remained constant in effluent after wastewater treatment. Surface water displayed relatively complex normalized REE patterns influenced by anthropogenic activities and natural processes (weathering and complexation), while groundwater exhibited heavy REEs enrichment, due to carbonate solution complexation. Additionally, Gdanth concentration showed a positive correlation with ΣREE, Pb, Ni, and Co concentrations in groundwater, indicating a good pollution tracing potential. Health risk assessment using the hazard quotient (HQ) suggested higher HQGd values in groundwater compared to surface water. Residents in the eastern part of Poyang Lake were found to face higher risks associated with Gd in groundwater compared to the western part, with infants and children at greater risk than adult males and females. These findings offer valuable insights into environmental behavior and health risks of REEs in aquatic systems impacted by human activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Resources and Environment, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Genesis and Remediation of Groundwater Pollution and School of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, PR China.
| | - Huaming Guo
- MWR Key Laboratory of Groundwater Conservation and School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, PR China
| | | | - Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Resources and Environment, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Genesis and Remediation of Groundwater Pollution and School of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, PR China
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2
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Traore M, Zhang M, Gong A, Wang Y, Liu Y, Qiu L, Zhang Y, You Y, Bai Y, Gao G, Zhao W, Traore M, Hassan MA. Assessment of rare earth elements variations in five water systems in Beijing: Distribution, geochemical features, and fractionation patterns. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118842. [PMID: 38583656 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the distribution of rare earth elements (REEs) within the Beijing water system, specifically examining the Yongding, Chaobai, Beiyun, Jiyun, and Daqing rivers. Results indicate that the Beiyun River exhibits the highest REE concentrations, ranging from 35.95 to 59.78 μg/mL, while the Daqing River shows the lowest concentrations, ranging from 15.79 to 17.48 μg/mL. LREEs (La to Nd) predominate with a total concentration of 23.501 μg/mL, leading to a notable LREE/HREE ratio of 7.901. Positive Ce anomalies (0.70-1.11) and strong positive Eu anomalies (1.38-2.49) were observed. The study suggests that the Beijing water system's REEs may originate from geological and anthropogenic sources, such as mining and industrial activities in neighboring regions, including Inner Mongolia. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and effective water management strategies to address REE-related environmental concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mory Traore
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Baotou Water Quality Detection Technology Co., Ltd, Baotou 014000, China
| | - Aijun Gong
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Yiwen Wang
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Lina Qiu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuli Zhang
- School of Economics and Management, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yueyi You
- School of Economics and Management, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuzhen Bai
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ge Gao
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Weiyu Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Mariame Traore
- Guinean Agency of Environmental Evaluation (AGEE), Ministry of Environment and Durable Development, Conakry 761, Guinea
| | - Mahamat Abderamane Hassan
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
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3
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Ma S, Han G. Rare earth elements reveal the human health and environmental concerns in the largest tributary of the Mekong river, Northeastern Thailand. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 252:118968. [PMID: 38643820 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The widespread application of rare earth elements (REEs) in contemporary industries and agriculture, has caused emerging contaminant accumulation in aquatic environments. However, there is a limited scope of risk assessments, particularly in relation to human health associated with REEs. This study investigated the provenance, and contamination levels of REEs, further evaluating their environmental and human health risks in river sediments from an agricultural basin. The concentrations of REEs ranged from 30.5 to 347.7 mg/kg, with showing an upward trend from headwater to downstream. The positive matrix factorization (PMF) model identified natural and anthropogenic input, especially from agricultural activities, as the primary source of REEs in Mun River sediments. The contamination assessment by the geoaccumulation index (I-geo) and pollution load index (PLI) confirmed that almost individual REEs in the samples were slightly to moderately polluted. The potential ecological risk index (PERI) showed mild to moderate risks in Mun River sediment. Regular fertilization poses pollution and ecological risks to agricultural areas, manifesting as an enrichment of light REEs in river sediments. Nevertheless, Monte Carlo simulations estimated the average daily doses of total REEs from sediments to be 0.24 μg/kg/day for adults and 0.95 μg/kg/day for children, comfortably below established human health thresholds. However, the risk of REE exposure appears to be higher in children, and sensitivity analyses suggested that REE concentration contributed more to health risks, whether the adults or children. Thus, concerns regarding REE contamination and risks should be raised considering the wide distribution of agricultural regions, and further attention is warranted to assess the health risks associated with other routes of REE exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunrong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; Institute of Earth Sciences, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; Frontiers Science Center for Deep-time Digital Earth, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Guilin Han
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; Institute of Earth Sciences, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; Frontiers Science Center for Deep-time Digital Earth, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing, 100083, China.
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4
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Marginson H, MacMillan GA, Wauthy M, Sicaud E, Gérin-Lajoie J, Dedieu JP, Amyot M. Drivers of rare earth elements (REEs) and radionuclides in changing subarctic (Nunavik, Canada) surface waters near a mining project. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 471:134418. [PMID: 38688225 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of mining projects for rare earth elements (REEs) in response to rising global demand and geopolitical factors introduces environmental concerns, such as the suspected release of anthropogenic REEs to aquatic systems and the coexistence of radionuclides (U, Th). Northern regions confront heightened challenges from limited research and accelerated climate change. Drivers of REEs in surface waters (including George and Koroc rivers, their tributaries, and thermokarst lakes) were studied (2017-2023) in subarctic Canada within a climate transition zone, near a prospective REE mine. Dissolved REEs (<0.45 μm) correlated positively with Al, Fe, Th, U, Cl- and DOC. A novel relationship with water temperature demonstrated an approximate 10-fold decrease in REE concentrations over the environmental gradient (2-20 ℃), suggesting complex implications for REE speciation under climate pressures. Optical analyses further predicted REEs were mobilized by humic-rich, terrestrial DOC, with correlations presenting a possible co-transport with Al, Fe and Th. Relationships for redox-sensitive Ce anomalies (Ce/Ce* = 0.18-1.2) with multi-valent trace metals (Al, Fe, Ti) and DOC were suggestive of a preferential adsorption of Ce by inorganic colloids in low-DOC systems. Findings emphasized the potential for changes in REE geochemistry with ongoing northern surface warming and vegetation shifts.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Marginson
- GRIL, Département de sciences biologiques, Complexe des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - G A MacMillan
- GRIL, Département de sciences biologiques, Complexe des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - M Wauthy
- GRIL, Département de sciences biologiques, Complexe des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - E Sicaud
- Département de géographie, Université de Montréal, Canada; Centre d'Études Nordiques, Québec, Canada
| | - J Gérin-Lajoie
- Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada; Centre d'Études Nordiques, Québec, Canada
| | - J-P Dedieu
- Centre d'Études Nordiques, Québec, Canada; Institut des Géosciences de l'Environnement (IGE), Université Grenoble-Alpes et CNRS, France
| | - M Amyot
- GRIL, Département de sciences biologiques, Complexe des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada; Centre d'Études Nordiques, Québec, Canada.
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5
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Zheng T, Lin H, Jiang Y, Deng Y, Du X, Xie Y, Yuan J, Pei X. Insights from distribution and fractionation of the rare earth elements into As enrichment in the Singe Tsangpo River Basin. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167388. [PMID: 37758139 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The geogenic As enrichment occurs extensively in the major river basin from the Tibetan Plateau, while the knowledge involved with the underlying mechanisms is far from completion. The present study utilized the geochemical behaviors of rare earth elements (REE) to study the hydrogeochemical evolution and As enrichment in the Singe Tsnagpo River basin, a typical As-rich river basin in the Tibetan Plateau. The river water was characterized by significant positive Eu anomalies and slight negative Ce anomalies, indicating the hydrogeochemical control of oxidative weathering of sourcing rocks and the contribution of felsic rocks. The PHREEQC modeling results suggested that the carbonate weathering contributed to the complexation of REE in the river water, where REE(CO3)+ and REE(CO3)2- were the predominant complex species. Besides, the reversing scenarios of HREE/LREE enrichment in the river water/sediments suggested a critical control of iron (hydr)oxides on the REE fractionation due to the preferential adsorption of LREE compared with HREE. Interestingly, the variations in Y/Ni and Cr/V ratios from the river sediments suggested a different contribution of sourcing rock weathering along the river flow path, where ultramafic rock showed a substantial contribution to the river sediments in the lower reaches and granite source is predominant in the upper reaches. It was also notable that the concurrent enrichment of REE and As in the river waters showed a response to the substantial enhancement of chemical weathering in the upper reaches of the STR basin, which was evidenced by the corresponding increases in the electrical conductivity and the δ18O values in the river waters. The present study thus provides new insights into utilizing REE as environmental tracers for studying hydrogeochemical evolution and As enrichment in the STR basin, which could also apply to similar alpine arid and cold river basins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianliang Zheng
- College of Ecology and Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China; Tianfu Yongxing Laboratory, Chengdu 610213, PR China.
| | - He Lin
- College of Ecology and Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China
| | - Yue Jiang
- College of Ecology and Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China
| | - Yang Deng
- College of Ecology and Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China
| | - Xingguo Du
- College of Ecology and Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China
| | - Yanhua Xie
- College of Ecology and Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China
| | - Jianfei Yuan
- Chengdu Center, China Geological Survey (Geosciences Innovation Center of Southwest China), Chengdu 610081, PR China
| | - Xiangjun Pei
- College of Ecology and Environment, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China; Tianfu Yongxing Laboratory, Chengdu 610213, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, PR China.
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6
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Pastorino P, Squadrone S, Berti G, Esposito G, Bondavalli F, Renzi M, Pizzul E, Kazmi SSUH, Barceló D, Abete MC, Prearo M. Occurrence of rare earth elements in water, sediment, and freshwater fish of diverse trophic levels and feeding ecology: Insights from the Po river (northwest Italy). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 240:117455. [PMID: 37865325 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
To date, the occurrence of rare earth elements (REEs) in freshwater ecosystems has garnered limited attention in the scientific literature. Furthermore, a dearth of data exists regarding their potential bioaccumulation in freshwater fish. To fill this knowledge gap, we studied REEs concentrations in water, sediment, and fish specimens collected along the Po River (northwest Italy) and calculated biota-sediment accumulation (BSAF) and bioconcentration (BCF) factors, while taking into account fish feeding behavior and trophic level effects on the overall content of total REEs (ƩREEs). The fish communities were composed of native and non-native species. Remarkably low concentrations of REEs (<0.0003 mg/L) were detected in the water samples, indicating REEs insolubility. In contrast, sediment samples were found to be a good sink for REEs, with a higher mean ƩREEs recorded for the samples from the Moncalieri station (70.93 mg/kg). Notably, no significant differences in ƩREEs concentration were observed in the muscle tissue of fish samples from the three stations. The highest mean ƩREEs was recorded in the samples from the Murazzi station (0.027 mg/kg). The BSAF was very low, consistently below the unit, indicating an absence of bioaccumulation in fish muscle from sediment. In contrast, the BCF was high for several REEs, mainly for Sc and Y. While feeding ecology did not appear to affect REEs accumulation in muscle, there was a significant negative relationship between the trophic level and ΣREEs, indicating a trophic dilution of REEs from predator (Silurus glanis) to planktivorous (Alburnus arborella) fish. This study provides baseline concentrations, trophic transfers, and patterns of REEs in a river system. Further studies are needed to understand the transfer of REEs to other biotic components of lotic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pastorino
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy.
| | - Stefania Squadrone
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Giovanna Berti
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Esposito
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Fabio Bondavalli
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Monia Renzi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Pizzul
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Syed Shabi Ul Hassan Kazmi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Damià Barceló
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Cesarina Abete
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
| | - Marino Prearo
- The Veterinary Medical Research Institute for Piemonte, Liguria and Valle d'Aosta, 10154, Torino, Italy
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7
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Zhang Y, Su B, Shao S, Li N, Jiao H, Dan Y, Zhang H, Gao C. Geochemical behavior and source analysis of rare earth elements in intensive agriculture soils through high-resolution sampling. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167777. [PMID: 37848147 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are crucial for a low-carbon economy but overuse pollutes ecosystems. Studying their behavior and source in agricultural soils provides vital insights for soil management. To address this, we collected an extensive dataset comprising 2901 topsoil and 733 subsoil samples from an agriculturally dominant region in eastern China, characterized by uniform parent material. This comprehensive dataset enabled a thorough examination of the geochemical behavior and sources of REEs in the region. Our findings revealed the feasibility of utilizing La, Ce, and Y to predict ΣREE, LREE, HREE, and LREE/HREE ratios, thereby enhancing the REEs database for eastern China. The average ΣREE concentration in the study area measured 193.0 μg/g, with LREEs constituting 89 % of this total, representing a slight enrichment relative to the Upper Continental Crust. Notably, the electron-donating ability of Ce exhibited a correlation with Mn, indicating its potential as an indicator of redox reactions. The results obtained through structural equation modeling and random forest analysis identified Al, Ti, and K as the most influential environmental factors affecting ΣREE concentrations. Additionally, the indirect impact of K on ΣREE through pH was established. The strong correlation observed between major elements and Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs) shed light on the mechanisms responsible for the notable fractionation of REEs in topsoil. Furthermore, our investigation underscored the substantial influence of pedogenetic processes on the enrichment and leaching of REEs. Source analysis pinpointed significant contributors to REEs, including fertilizers, pesticides, domestic wastewater, coal fly ash, and the native soil parent material. In conclusion, our study emphasizes the pressing need for judicious control of anthropogenic REE inputs. This step is pivotal not only for ensuring the sustainable utilization of soil but also for ultimately safeguarding ecosystems and environmental quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalu Zhang
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Baowei Su
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Shuangshuang Shao
- School of Resource and Environment, Henan University of Engineering, Zhengzhou 451191, Henan, China
| | - Ning Li
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - He Jiao
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yang Dan
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Chao Gao
- School of Geography and Ocean Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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8
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Li D, Jiang C, Jiang C, Liu F, Zhu Q. Geochemical characteristics and migration patterns of rare earth elements in coal mining subsidence lakes under the influence of multiple factors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166668. [PMID: 37660822 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Mining activities cause surface subsidence and the formation of subsidence lakes, which dynamically change with the continuous coal mining activities. Under the combined influence of various human activities such as agriculture, aquaculture, and floating photovoltaic (FPV), the lake environment undergoes continuous changes, thereby altering the geochemical characteristics of rare earth elements (REEs) in the sediment. This study focused on the subsidence lakes in the Huainan coalfield in eastern China to examine the REEs content in the sediment, elucidated the temporal variations and geochemical characteristics of REEs distribution, explored the main controlling factors of REEs in the sediment, and revealed the migration and transformation behavior of REEs during dynamic subsidence processes. The study revealed that the migration pattern of REEs in the sediment was closely related to the duration of subsidence. The average content of REEs in lake sediments with subsidence duration <5 years increased from 219 μg·g-1 to 248 μg·g-1 compared to the soil, showing an enrichment model primarily driven by rainwater runoff, groundwater input retention, and mineral dissolution. With further subsidence, the processes of reduction dissolution of Fe-Mn oxides/hydroxides, organic colloid adsorption, and hydraulic disturbance gradually replaced the aforementioned enrichment behavior as the main migration pathways, resulting in a decrease in the average REEs content in the sediment to 179 μg·g-1 for subsidence durations exceeding 10 years. There was no strong correlation between REEs fractionation and subsidence duration. Artificial activities, such as FPV, are important factors causing Cerium and Erbium anomalies in some subsidence lake sediments. This study was not only of significant importance for understanding the migration, distribution, and environmental behavior of pollutants in aquatic environments under the interference of human activities but also provided a solid theoretical foundation for the future management of coal mining subsidence lakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desheng Li
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, Anhui, China
| | - Chunlu Jiang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, Anhui, China; School of Resources and Geoscience, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Chenghong Jiang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, Anhui, China
| | - Feng Liu
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, Anhui, China
| | - Qiyu Zhu
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, Anhui, China
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9
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Xia X, Jiang C, Hu M, Li Y. Geochemical characteristics and ecological risks of rare earth elements in river sediments of coal-grain composite area in eastern China. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1428. [PMID: 37938430 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Coal and grain complex areas influence the geochemical characterization of REEs through coal mining activities and agricultural production. However, there is a lack of relevant studies. In this study, we investigated the geochemical characterization and risk assessment of REEs in river sediments of the northern Anhui plain, a typical coal-grain composite area. The results showed that the average concentrations of ∑REE in the sediments ranged from 134.7 to 220.3 μg/g, and LREE was significantly enriched. Among the 14 REEs, Gd and Eu were the most enriched, with enrichment factors of 1.792 and 1.764, respectively. In addition, the differences in REEs content and enrichment between different rivers were related to the location of coal mines and the degree of population concentration. The average values of δCe and δEu in the sediments were 0.990 and 1.080, respectively, and most of the sampling sites showed a weak positive Ce, Eu anomaly. The results of Pearson's correlation and RDA redundancy analyses showed that Fe, Al, Mn and sand contributed more to the enrichment of REEs. The river sediments in the whole area had a slight potential ecological risk, with Eu (Er=13.05) and Lu (Er=14.07) having the highest potential risk. The ADD results also showed that the average daily dose of REEs by children was around 2.000 (μg/(kg·day)), which was significantly higher than that of adults. The results of this study can be used as a basis for the prevention and control of REEs in rivers in northern Anhui Province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Xia
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China
| | - Chunlu Jiang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China.
- School of Resources and Geoscience, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Mingyu Hu
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China
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10
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Ma S, Han G, Yang Y, Li X. Agricultural activity on the Mun River basin: insight from spatial distribution and sources of dissolved rare earth elements in northeast Thailand. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:106736-106749. [PMID: 37737948 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29917-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Rare earth elements (REE) are emerging pollutants of concern, impacted by intensive fertilizer use and discharge of human and animal waste into agricultural watersheds. However, the natural values and potential anthropogenic enrichment of REE in aqueous systems of the agricultural basins remain poorly understood. This study investigated the spatial variation of dissolved REE in a predominantly agricultural river (Mun River) in northeast Thailand. Dissolved ΣREE concentrations in the Mun River ranged from 5.08 to 272.91 ng/L, with the highest concentrations observed in the middle reaches where agricultural fertilizers and wastewater increased dissolved REE concentrations. The PAAS-normalized patterns and dissolved Eu anomaly jointly reveal that the dissolved ΣREE mainly originated from local rocks and agricultural fertilizers. The dissolved REE in the Mun River is characteristic of a depleted light REE relative to heavy REE, slightly negative Ce anomaly, positive Eu anomaly, and positive Gd anomaly in a punctate distribution. The correlation analysis of (La/Yb)N with fluvial pH and HCO3- indicates that the water environment characteristics of the Mun River control dissolved REE fractionation. The Ce anomaly is associated with the oxidation environment, whereas the Eu anomaly is linked to the lithologic inheritance. Positive punctate Gd anomalies are influenced by human-caused wastewater discharge and applying fertilizers, raising Gd concentrations beyond natural background levels. This study has suggested that the geochemical characteristics of dissolved REE are affected by agricultural disturbances, and future environmental research on dissolved REE is essential to clarifying the impacts of REE on agriculture, the environment, and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunrong Ma
- Institute of Earth Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Guilin Han
- Institute of Earth Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - Yiyun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Groundwater Circulation and Environmental Evolution, China University of Geosciences, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Li
- School of Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences, Beijing, 100083, China
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Traore M, He Y, Wang Y, Gong A, Qiu L, Bai Y, Liu Y, Zhang M, Chen Y, Huang X. Research progress on the content and distribution of rare earth elements in rivers and lakes in China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114916. [PMID: 37058831 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
This study reviewed the content and distribution of rare earth elements (REE) in rivers and lakes in China based on the online literature. The sequence distribution of REE presented the decreasing trends in the order: of Ce > La > Nd > Pr > Sm > Gb > Dy>Er > Yb > Eu > Lu > Ho > Tb > Tm in rivers water. Pearl River and the Jiulong River constitute a significant sediments REE reservoir with an average value mean of 229.6 mg/kg and 266.86 mg/kg, respectively; both have higher concentrations than the global river average (174.8 mg/kg) and higher than the local soil background (Chinese soil background). The Liaohe River is one of China's most polluted rivers, with REE distribution ranging from 106.61 to 174.71 g/L (average 144.59 g/L in water). The total concentrations of dissolved REE in rivers near REE mining areas in China are higher than in other rivers. Increasing anthropogenic inputs to natural systems may permanently alter the natural signatures of REE. The distribution characteristics of REE in Chinese lakes (sediments) varied greatly, and the mean enrichment factor (EF) was sorted as follows: Ce > La > Nd > Pr > Sm > Gd > Dy>Er > Yb > Eu > Ho > Tb > Tm > Lu, where Ce was the most abundant followed by La, Nd, and Pr, and these four elements account for 85.39 % of the total concentration of REE. The REE in the sediments obtained from Poyang Lake and Dongting Lake had an average concentration respectively of 254.0 μg/g and 197.95 μg/g; both are considerably higher than the average upper continental crust (146.4 μg/g) and higher than in other lakes in China and around the world. The distribution and accumulation of LREE in most lake sediments result from the joint action of human activities and natural processes. It concluded that mining tailings were the primary cause of REE pollution in sediments, and industrial and agricultural activities are mainly responsible for water contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mory Traore
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yafei He
- Tianjin College, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Tianjin 301830, China
| | - Yiwen Wang
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Aijun Gong
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Lina Qiu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuzhen Bai
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Baotou Water Quality Detection Technology Co., Ltd, Baotou 014000, China
| | - Yifan Chen
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xinyu Huang
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
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Olteanu RL, Radulescu C, Bretcan P, Zinicovscaia I, Culicov O, Vergel K, Tanislav D, Bumbac M, Nicolescu CM, Dulama ID, Gorghiu LM. Geochemical Responses to Natural and Anthropogenic Settings in Salt Lakes Sediments from North-Eastern Romanian Plain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:935. [PMID: 36673692 PMCID: PMC9859558 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20020935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Chemical analysis was performed on sediment core samples collected from three salt lakes, Amara Lake, Caineni Lake, and Movila Miresii Lake, located in the northeast of the Romanian Plain. The concentration of 10 main elements, 6 heavy metals (HMs), 8 rare earth elements (REEs), and 10 trace elements (TEs)-determined using neutron activation analysis (NAA)-showed variability dependent on the depth sections, lake genesis and geochemical characteristics (oxbow, fluvial harbor/liman and loess saucer type). The assessment of pollution indices (contamination factor, pollution load index, geoaccumulation index, and enrichment factor) highlighted low and moderate degrees of contamination for most of the investigated elements. Principal component analysis (PCA) extracted three principal components, explaining 70.33% (Amara Lake), 79.92% (Caineni Lake), and 71.42% (Movila Miresii Lake) of the observed variability. The principal components extracted were assigned to pedological contribution (37.42%-Amara Lake, 55.88%-Caineni Lake, and 15.31%-Movila Miresii Lake), salts depositions (due to the lack of a constant supply of freshwater and through evaporation during dry periods), atmospheric deposition (19.19%-Amara Lake, 13.80%-Caineni Lake, and 10.80%-Movila Miresii Lake), leaching from soil surface/denudation, rock weathering, and mixed anthropogenic input (e.g., agricultural runoff, wastewater discharges) (13.72%-Amara Lake, 10.24%-Caineni Lake, and 45.31%-Movila Miresii Lake).
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu Lucian Olteanu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Cristiana Radulescu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
- Faculty of Sciences and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
- Doctoral School Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Politehnica University of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Petre Bretcan
- Faculty of Humanities, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130105 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Inga Zinicovscaia
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna, Russia
- Horia Hulubei National Institute for R&D in Physics and Nuclear Engineering, 077125 Magurele, Romania
| | - Otilia Culicov
- Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna, Russia
- National Institute for Research and Development in Electrical Engineering ICPE-CA, 030138 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Danut Tanislav
- Faculty of Humanities, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130105 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Marius Bumbac
- Faculty of Sciences and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Cristina Mihaela Nicolescu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Ioana Daniela Dulama
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Laura Monica Gorghiu
- Faculty of Sciences and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
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