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Trace metal geochemistry of pore water brines from two hypersaline lakes

Journal Article · · Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta; (United States)

Pore water brines from modern hypersaline lake sediments have been analyzed to determine the nature of brine-trace interaction in these environments. Brine samples were collected from the surface waters and sedimentary pore waters of two hypersaline lakes; Solar Lake, eastern Sinai, and Goto Meer, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles. Metal concentrations in the oxic brines appear to be related to the strength of their respective chloride complexes, with Pb and Zn more enriched than Cu. Pore water Cu, Zn, and Fe concentrations increased across the sediment-water interface in both lakes. All three metal profiles follow a similar pattern with depth in the pore water. Higher concentrations were observed in the Goto Meer brines. Strontium isotopes were utilized to qualify better the mixing of the brines in Solar Lake. Although these metals were observed at higher concentrations than sea water in these sulfidic brines, their concentrations are not close to what is needed for the formation of ore deposits.

Research Organization:
Univ. of New Hampshire, Durham (USA)
OSTI ID:
5100494
Journal Information:
Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta; (United States), Journal Name: Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta; (United States) Vol. 52:2; ISSN GCACA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English