Ion-adsorption clay-type rare earth elements in the Western Belt of Peninsular Malaysia: A study on the influence of tin-bearing S-type granites

The Late Triassic S-type granites in Peninsular Malaysia are known for their tin-bearing characteristics, which contribute to placer deposits in the Kinta and Klang Valleys. However, the role of these granites in the formation of ion-adsorption clay-type rare earth element (IAC-REE) deposits remains poorly understood. This study examines IAC-REE content in weathered profiles from five locations: Kampung Bandar (Kedah), Tibang (Perak), Kerling (Selangor), Kampung Purun (Negeri Sembilan), and Ladang Pagoh (Johor). The analysis was conducted using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) on soil and rock samples. The total rare earth element (TREE) content in the weathered profiles ranges from 222 to 677 ppm, with higher light rare earth element (TLREE) content (144–566 ppm) compared to heavy rare earth elements (THREE) (62–111 ppm). Chondrite-normalized REE plots show both enrichment and depletion relative to the granitic parent rocks. The variation in REE content is influenced by factors such as the presence of REE-bearing minerals, clay content, and profile thickness.