Radioactive (U, Th) elements in technogenic waters of tungsten deposits in Eastern Transbaikalia (Russia)

Abstract

The peculiarities of distribution and migration of uranium and thorium in technogenic waters of seven tungsten deposits located in Eastern Transbaikalia have been studied. It has been established that elevated concentrations of uranium are found in all types of investigated waters, whereas the accumulation of thorium was recorded only in acidic waters (pH < 4). Maximum concentrations of elements were found in the areas of deposits localized in leucocratic and lithium-fluorine granitoids. In acidic waters, uranium and thorium migrate primarily in the form of sulfate and fluoride complex ions, while in neutral and weakly alkaline conditions, carbonate complexes come to the fore.