Geochemical features of REE and Y accumulation in the subcolloid fraction of sediments from the northern part of Amur Bay (Sea of Japan)

Abstract

The average contents of REE, Y, Fe, Mn, and clay minerals were determined in the subcolloid fraction of bottom sediments from the northern part of Amur Bay. The positive correlation of REE and Y contents with Fe and Mn is related to their flocculation and sorption on Fe, Mn oxyhydroxides and clay minerals (hydromica, smectites). The sediments are subdivided into three groups (sediments from the influence zone of the Razdol’naya River, sediments located along the eastern and western shores of the bay, and sediments weakly subjected to the river influence) with different average contents of REE, Y, Fe, and Mn. It is shown that REE and Y are mainly incorporated (98–100%) in clay minerals.