Identification of Strategic Minerals in Akedotilou Village, Paceda Hamlet, Oba Tengah District, North Maluku Province

Abstract

Soil from Akedotilou Village, Paceda Hamlet, Oba Tengah District, North Maluku Province, was analyzed using the X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) method. Analysis was conducted on major and trace elements, including rare earth metals (REEs), to evaluate the mineralogical potential and the presence of high-value commodities. The results showed significant contents of Fe (39.001%), Si (31.406%), and Al (11.323%), as well as the presence of very small amounts of REEs, such as Tb (0.502%), Gd (0.243%), and Eu (0.182%). However, several important elements such as Au and Ni, as well as other REEs, were not detected, possibly due to the lack of sample purification procedures, thus reducing the sensitivity and accuracy of the analysis. In addition, the copper content (0.060%) indicates the possible presence of gold, which is supported by local geological conditions and the proximity to active mining areas. High contents of Al, Si, K, and Ca also point to the potential presence of feldspar minerals such as orthoclase, microcline, and anorthite. This research emphasizes the importance of further exploration and the application of advanced mineralogical purification and identification techniques such as XRD, SEM, and TEM to validate the presence of strategic minerals.