Analysis of Physical - Chemical Properties and Variation of Rare Earth Elements in Ciuyah Mud Volcano and Supported by SEM and XRD Data to Bolster Advanced Materials Industry in Indonesia
Fina Nurfaradila (a*), Eleonora Agustine (b), Sartono (b), Amira Sasanti Nugroho Putri (b), Krishna Agra Pranatikta (c)

a)Department of Physisc, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Padjadjaran University, Jl. Ir. Soekarno, Km. 21, Jatinangor, Sumedang Regency, 45363, West Java, Indonesia
*) fina19001[at]mail.unpad.ac.id
b)Department of Geophysics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Padjadjaran University, Jl. Ir. Soekarno, Km. 21, Jatinangor, Sumedang Regency, 45363, West Java, Indonesia
c)Department of Geophysical Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung, West Java, Indonesia

Abstract

A mud volcano is a geological phenomenon that emerges on the earth^s surface when mud material is ejected due to excess pressure, buoyancy, and temperature variations from beneath the earth^s surface. Located in West Java, the Ciuyah Mud Volcano serves as a fascinating site for scientific exploration. With its unique characteristics and geological features, this mud volcano presents an intriguing opportunity for researchers to deepen their understanding of the earth^s processes. The material ejected by mud volcanoes, including Ciuyah Mud Volcano, contains a wealth of minerals, elements, and salt potential crucial for scientific investigation or livelihoods. Of particular interest is the presence of rare earth elements, which are significant for research due to their potential as important raw materials for modern technology. Exploring these elements within the material of the mud volcano could provide valuable insights into the earth^s composition and inform future research endeavors. This study aims to determine the physical-chemical properties of a mud volcano using the electrical method with parameters such as EC and VWC of the mud, EC and TDS of water, as well as variations in the distribution of REE using XRF and ICP-OES tests. Additionally, the study aims to obtain the distribution of salt and metals using SEM and XRD tests. The results of the study indicate that Ciuyah Mud Volcano contains conductive minerals due to the high EC and VWC values in the mud samples, as well as elevated TDS and salinity levels. The XRF and ICP-OES tests reveal the potential presence of REE, with 12 elements discovered including Ce, Dy, Eu, Gd, Ho, La, Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Sc, and Y. SEM and XRD test results from the salt Ciuyah Mud Volcano sample show Halite and Helvite mineralogy with a hexagonal shape and large crystal grains. The potential REE could support the advanced material industry and clean energy in Indonesia, as well as identify salt potential and hot spring manifestations that can be utilized by local communities, including as beauty salt.

Keywords: Ciuyah Mud Volcano- rare earth elements- ICP-OES- SEM- XRD- XRF

Topic: Material Physics