A Kinetic Model for the Accumulation of Metals by Plants: Gold and Rare Earth Elements in Natural Coals of Russia
摘要
The phenomenon of metal concentration by plants is discussed. The metal content in plants can be tens or hundreds of times higher than the metal content in the soil. A kinetic model of phytomining is developed. The model is verified based on experimental data, the two-chamber nature of the process is demonstrated, a parametric analysis of the model is performed elucidating the role of the metal transfer rate from the geological substrate and metal translocation in the plant, and the dynamics of metal bioaccumulation is described. Natural coals are characterized by exceptionally high ash content (metal content up to 50%) and represent a dynamic reflection of metal concentration over long periods of time. Data on the metal content in many coal deposits of Russia (Moscow Basin, Donetsk Basin, deposits of Siberia) are presented. The phytomining model is extended to a macro-historical timescale (tens and hundreds of millions of years). An increase in metal ash content with the age of coal deposit formation is shown.