Ultra-trace Element Characterization of the Central Ottawa River Basin using a Rapid, Flexible, and Low-volume ICP-MS Method

• DOI: 10.1007/s10498-020-09376-w
• Publication Date: 2020-05-05T18:02:53Z
• Authors: Michael G. Babechuk; Edel M. O’Sullivan; Cora A. McKenna; Carolina Rosca; Thomas F. Nägler; Ronny Schoenberg; Balz S. Kamber
• Keywords: Rare-earth element; Trace element

Ultra-trace ( HREE-enriched REE + Y patterns, small natural positive Y and Gd anomalies, and negative Eu and Ce anomalies. These REE + Y features are coherent downstream in the OR apart from amplification of Eu and Ce anomalies during REE removal/dilution. The OR samples capture a downstream decrease in sparingly soluble HFSE (Th, Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf), presumably related to their colloid-particulate removal from the dissolved load, accompanied by crustal Zr/Hf (32.5 ± 5.1) and supercrustal Nb/Ta (25.1 ± 7.7) ratios. Subcrustal Th/U (0.17–0.96) and supercrustal Mo/W (12.0–74.5) ratios in all ORB waters indicate preferential release and aqueous solubility of U > Th and Mo > W, with the latter attributed primarily to preferential W adsorption on soil or upstream aquatic (oxy)(hydr)oxide surfaces.