Sustainability, Vol. 17, Pages 2552: Sustainable Exploration, Mining, and Utilization of a Rare Earth Deposit in Southeastern Guangxi: Insights into Metallogenic Regularity

Sustainability, Vol. 17, Pages 2552: Sustainable Exploration, Mining, and Utilization of a Rare Earth Deposit in Southeastern Guangxi: Insights into Metallogenic Regularity

Sustainability doi: 10.3390/su17062552

Authors: Zhiyou Zou Sheng Zhang Jinfu Yuan Xin Ying Zhongyi Tao Shunshe Luo

In this study, we investigated and evaluated the mineralization pattern of ion-adsorption rare earth deposits in granite weathering crusts using remote sensing technology for the southeastern region of Guangxi, and we proposed a strategy for sustainable mining and utilization. Through detailed analysis of the stratification characteristics, mineralogical features, and rare earth element (REE) distribution patterns of the weathering crust, it is found that the rare earth minerals are mainly enriched in the completely weathered layers, with light rare earth elements (La, Ce, Pr, Nd) dominating. This study reveals the transformation mechanism of rocks and minerals during the weathering process, especially the important role of kaolinite, feldspar, and smectite in the enrichment of rare earth elements. Combined with remote sensing image analysis, the intrinsic connection between linear tectonics and mineralization is explored, and potential directions for sustainable exploration are proposed. This study deepens the understanding of the mineralization mechanism of rare earth deposits in the region and provides scientific basis and technical support for the sustainable exploration and development of rare earth resources, and it has important economic and environmental significance.