An experimental study on using rare earth elements to trace phosphorous losses from nonpoint sources

Controlling phosphorous (P) inputs through management of its sources and transport is critical for limiting freshwater eutrophication. In this study, characteristics of exogenous rare earth elements (REEs) and P and their losses with surface runoff (both in the water and sediments) during simulated rainfall experiments (83 mm h−1) were investigated. The results revealed that on average most REEs (La, 94%; Nd, 93%; Sm, 96%) and P (96%) transported with sediments in the runoff. The total amounts of losses of REEs and P in the runoff were significantly correlated, suggesting the possibility of using REEs to trace the fate of agricultural nonpoint P losses.

► It is a explorative research of using REE as a tracer to track nonpoint P loss.
► The results revealed that most REEs and P transported with sediments in the runoff.
► REEs and P in the runoff were significantly correlated.
► Results suggesting the possibility of using REEs to trace the fate of P losses.