Molybdenum stable isotope fractionation during the precipitation of powellite (CaMoO4) and wulfenite (PbMoO4)

Laboratory batch experiments were conducted to study Mo isotope fractionation during the precipitation of powellite (CaMoO4) and wulfenite (PbMoO4). These minerals act as important sinks of dissolved Mo, especially in alkaline-pH mine drainage. Their precipitation might be traceable through Mo isotope analyses, provided that it induces Mo isotope fractionation. Experiments involved the presence/absence of dissolved sulfate and inorganic carbon (DIC) to better mimic the aqueous chemistry of mine drainage, as these constituents are characteristic of mine waters.