Formation of HREE-enriched ion-adsorption ore from LREE-rich granodiorite: a case study from the Meng Khun deposit, Laos

Ion adsorption rare earth elements deposits are the principal global source of heavy rare earth elements (HREEs). The current perception is that HREE deposits are generated from HREE-enriched granitoids, whereas LREE deposits originate from LREE-enriched intermediate-acidic magmatic and metamorphic rocks. However, contrary to the prevailing view that HREE-rich ion-adsorption mineralization requires HREE-enriched parent rocks, this study demonstrates that intensive weathering of LREE- dominated g