Bulk chemistry analysis of sediments from an extremely acidic mine lake of the Lusatian lignite mining district was performed using X-ray fluorescence analysis and a wavelength dispersive spectrometer (Siemens SRS 3000). Because of pronounced changes in sample composition along the cores, we applied the fundamental parameter option for matrix correction only to the main components. The capabilities of the scattered radiation method were examinated for the trace constituents.

The sediments of the acid lake were dominated by high concentrations of iron (up to 40% dry weight) in the upper horizons of depth profiles. These total iron contents were compared with values of reactive iron fractions. Aluminium and manganese concentrations were also elevated near the surface of the sediment. The concentrations of these elements decreased with depth, accompanied by changes in grain size fractions from clay to silt.