Hydrogeochemistry and weathering on the Yilgarn Block, Western Australia—ferrolysis and heavy metals in continental brines

Abstract

Groundwater samples collected from salt lakes over the Archean Yilgarn Block of Western Australia, show the influence of climate on geochemical weathering patterns. Major element compositions in salt lake groundwaters, show little systematic trend, but there are marked differences in pH and Fe, Cu, and Pb, concentrations in the alkaline carbonated systems of the arid northeastern part, compared to concentrations of the same elements in groundwater systems of the Mediterranean-type climatic region of the “wheatbelt” in the southwestern part of the block. In this latter region, in addition to higher rainfall input, the groundwater systems have steeper hydraulic gradients, weathering bedrock is closer to the surface, and oxidation and hydrolysis of iron (ferrolysis) is evident in weathering profiles. A combination of vertical diffusion and horizontal groundwater flow is thought to be responsible for the development of ferrolysis and acidity in groundwaters in this region. Anomalously high concentrations of heavy metals, particularly lead, are observed in some of the acid-saline groundwaters. The formation of laterite, which is a ubiquitous feature of the Yilgam Block landscape, is a process probably closely linked to ferrolysis.