The sources and retention mechanisms of mercury in coal

Coal, known as a natural Hg repository, is one of the most significant reservoirs of Hg on Earth. Understanding the sources and retention mechanisms of Hg in coal is crucial for comprehending the natural Hg cycle in the Earth system. In this study, a multidimensional Hg isotope analysis strategy was employed to differentiate Hg species and analyze the isotopic composition of total Hg and inherent Hg species in coal, providing dynamic insights into the sources and retention mechanisms of Hg in coal.