Distribution, and mobility of rare earth elements in surface sediment of Gomishan Wetland

Abstract

Rare earth elements (REEs) are emerging environmental contaminants that pose a threat to ecosystem health. Their accumulation in sediments and potential release into the water column can raise concerns. Understanding the factors influencing REE mobility is crucial. Furthermore, our knowledge of the risk and occurrence of REEs in wetland ecosystems is inadequate. This study investigated REE release from sediments under varying redox conditions (Eh). The different redox potential values were adjusted using a photoanode (Ti/TiO₂) and a cathode (graphite). Also, to recognize the relationship between REEs and other parameters, Pearson correlation (PC) was employed. Results showed that increasing Eh initially enhanced REE mobility (until around 300 mV), followed by a decrease at higher Eh values. Among the studied REEs, lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), and gadolinium (Gd) exhibited the highest release potential into water, with measured concentrations reaching 199.4, 93.1, and 31.2 µg/L, respectively. Moreover, according to several eco-geochemical risk assessment indices, the sediment of the study area was classified as minimal contamination. Statistical analyses revealed that Eh indirectly affects REE mobility by influencing linked changes in pH, salinity, and iron-manganese (Fe-Mn) chemistry, which in turn impacts REE solubility and release from sediments.