Study on the Enrichment Characteristics of Rubidium in the Coal-Bearing Strata in the Middle Section of the Northern Margin of Qaidam Basin

Key Points

• The aim is to explore the enrichment characteristics of rubidium and its associated elements in the sedimentary strata of the Qaidam Basin.
• Conducted geochemical analysis of core samples from borehole ZK14-1 in the coal mine.
• Assessed the evolutionary characteristics and tectonic environment of the sedimentary strata.
• Evaluated correlations between trace and rare earth elements.
• Rubidium concentration measured at 142.3 μg/g, exceeding continental sediment abundance levels.
• Strong correlation between rubidium and elements such as cesium and lithium, suggesting relevant mineralization.
• Sedimentary processes indicated an oxidizing to anoxic environment based on ratio analyses.