Explanation of the Sutlegen Bauxites to Some REE Contents by Statistical Approach and Inequality Expressions

Abstract

Bauxite Statistical Analysis Inequalities Expression Chemical PropertyBauxite formation is usually possible in humid and tropical weather conditions with the enrichment of minerals containing Al2O3 in the environment. These minerals are found in chemical compositions that are rich in major and trace elements, and REEs. Karst-type bauxites have different characteristics in terms of REE and trace elements since they undergo alteration processes. Various correlations can be evaluated using geostatistical methods to reveal the behavior of these elements in bauxitization processes. The REE contents of the Sutlegen bauxite deposits were obtained by conducting ICP-MS analysis. The inequality expressions of the La element, which is in the lanthanide group of the periodic table and is included in the light rare earth elements, with Y element, the heavy and transition metal, has provided information about the formation conditions of bauxite. The arithmetic mean of the La/Y ratios of bauxites was found to be 0.25, and the ore formation condition was interpreted as acidic. Therefore, ∑REE concentrations of the Sutlegen bauxite deposits were associated with ∑LREE/HREE and La/Y ratios. ∑REE concentration was found to be positively correlated with the ∑LREE/HREE and La/Y ratios, and the correlation coefficients were found to be 0.89 and 0.44, respectively. The positive correlation between ∑REE concentration and La/Y ratio can be interpreted that the pH in the bauxite formation environment has a positive effect on REEs. Under the acidic conditions of ore formation, the bauxites were enriched in REEs.