REE distribution in sequential leached phases from deep-sea polymetallic nodules and sediments

Abstract

The distribution of main elements and REE in sequential leached phases from deep-sea polymetallic nodules and sediments from the eastern part of the Clarion-Clipperton fractures zone, NE Pacific are studied. Results show extraction of Mn in the leach 2 in both nodules and sediments. The extraction of Fe, P and REE is different for leach 2, 3 and residual fraction for nodules and sediments. Phosphorous and REE have strong positive correlation which suggests that the phosphate component is the main important carrier of REE in both nodules and sediments but Fe-Mn oxyhydroxides and clay minerals cannot be excluded as carriers of REE.