Earth Science Frontiers ›› 2025, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (4): 342-352.DOI: 10.13745/j.esf.sf.2025.4.16

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Optimal selection of soil zinc, selenium and germanium enrichment target areas and evaluation of their health potential on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

ZHANG Yafeng1,2(), SHI Zeming1,*(), MIAO Guowen2,*(), XU Guang2, JIN Ge1, MA Fengjuan2, JI Bingyan3, YAO Zhen2, MA Ying2   

  1. 1. College of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China
    2. Qinghai Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Selenium-rich Resource Utilization, The Fifth Geological Exploration Institute of Qinghai Province, Xining 810099, China
    3. The Fourth Geological Exploration Institute of Qinghai Province, Xining 810000, China
  • Received:2025-02-28 Revised:2025-04-18 Online:2025-07-25 Published:2025-08-04

Abstract:

The northeastern margin of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, characterized by intricate geological architecture and concentrated agro-pastoral activities, presents an optimal field laboratory for health geology research. This study systematically investigated the spatial distribution, enrichment mechanisms, and health potential of critical essential elements (Zn, Se, Ge) using advanced geochemical prospecting techniques, establishing a scientific foundation for optimizing land resource utilization and delineating priority eco-health zones. A total of 8273 surface soil samples were collected and analyzed for pH, Zn, Se, and Ge content. Multi-criteria assessment frameworks incorporating the geo-accumulation index (Igeo), standard threshold comparison, health potential index (HPI), and a Composite Index were implemented. Key findings include: (1) Soils in the study area exhibit overall low Se, low Ge, and high Zn backgrounds, with spatial variability characterized by strong variation for Se, moderate for Ge, and weak for Zn. (2) Relative to Chinese soil background values, the degree and spatial extent of Zn, Se, and Ge enrichment decrease in that order. Compared to relevant national standards and soil classification criteria, soils are generally Zn-rich but Se-poor and Ge-poor, although localized Se-rich and Ge-rich zones exist, exhibiting potential health benefits. Health potential assessment (HPI) indicates moderate potential for Zn and Se, but lower potential for Ge. Areas with moderate or higher composite health potential constitute 14.8% of the region. (3) Priority target areas for utilization were identified by first selecting zones exceeding the 85th percentile of the Composite Health Potential Index, followed by refinement based on geological background, land use, geomorphology, and enrichment patterns. Five key target areas were delineated, providing strategic direction for in-depth healthy geology research and application in Qinghai.

Key words: the northeastern margin of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, healthy elements, soil zinc, selenium and germanium, target area preference, health potential

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