Distribution Characteristics and Formation Mechanisms of Rubidium and Cesium in the Water Bodies of the Northern Hoh Xil Region
The enrichment of rare metals rubidium(Rb)and cesium(Cs)in the salt lakes of Hoh Xil has a crucial strategic importance for ensuring resource security of China.To understand the distribution patterns and enrichment mechanisms of Rb and Cs in the waters of Hoh Xil lakes,the hydrochemistry,stable iso-topes(δD and δ18O),and elemental contents of lake water,groundwater,river water,and precipitation were analyzed.The results indicate that(1)The TDS values of lake water in the northern part of Hoh Xil vary significantly,ranging from 0.42 to 31.99 g/L.The content of Rb and Cs ranges from 2.32 to 2 467.7 μg/L(mean:210.85 μg/L)and 0.65 to 945.53 μg/L(mean:98.23 μg/L),respectively.Spatially,the concentra-tions of Rb and Cs exhibit a similar distribution pattern to TDS,characterized by higher values in the west,followed by the east,and the lowest in the central region,and Lexiewudan Lake has the highest Rb and Cs contents and TDS.The lake water shows significant desalination,which will pose challenges for the future exploitation and utilization of Rb and Cs resources in the salt lake.(2)The hydrogen and oxygen isotopic compositions indicate that the northern Hoh Xil Lake water is recharged by atmospheric precipitation,mag-matic water,and river and groundwater.The spring water,during its ascent,undergoes mixing with pre-cipitation and converges with river water,supplying the lake area.Except for Yinma Lake.Salt Lake,and the eastern part of Kusai Lake,the Rb content in other lakes is higher than the Cs content(i.e.,Rb/Cs＞1).The differences in Rb and Cs contents in the northern Hoh Xil lake water are controlled by the source and migration processes.The enrichment of Rb and Cs in lake water is primarily influenced by the supply of high-rubidium and high-cesium hot springs,evaporation concentration of the water body,and water-rock interactions.This study not only enriches the theoretical understanding of the enrichment mechanisms of rare metals Rb and Cs in Hoh Xil salt lakes but also provides scientific evidence and fundamental support for enhancing the sustainable assurance capability of Rb and Cs resources in the salt lakes.
Water bodies in Northern Hoh XilRubidium and CesiumHydrogen and Oxygen isotopesEvaporation and concentrationWater-Rock interaction
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