Heavy metal pollution and risk assessment of tailings in one low-grade copper sulfide mine

Abstract

Analyzing the pollution level and ecological risk of heavy metals in tailings is a necessary step for conducting revegetation after a tailings pond’s closure. Herein, we determined the heavy metal pollution status and ecological risk in one low-grade copper sulfide tailings pond using chemical and mineralogical analysis, chemical extraction, and ecological risk assessment. The results showed that the low-grade copper sulfide tailings displayed a low pollution status and exhibited a very low ecological risk. Among six heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Zn, As, Cr, and Cd), only Cu (53.7 mg/kg) slightly exceeded its standard value limit (50 mg/kg), and was the main pollutant in the tailings. Due to its high toxicity, As had the maximum contribution to the potential ecological risk in the tailings. Pb, Zn, Cr, and Cd in the tailings were practically of no pollution, and at low or none potential ecological risk. In order to conduct revegetation in the tailings pond, more attention should be paid to the acidity change of tailings and its impact on the chemical activity and bioavailability of Cu and As. This research provides a theoretical basis for heavy metals risk control and revegetation in the low-grade copper sulfide tailings pond.

The Effects of Vermicompost and Steel Slag Amendments on the Physicochemical Properties and Bacterial Community Structure of Acidic Soil Containing Copper Sulfide Mines

“…Due to the sulfur content inherent in ore constituents, sulfide copper ores undergo insufficient separation during ore beneficiation processes. Unseparated sulfur and tailings are collectively deposited in waste piles, culminating in long-term soil exposure and pervasive issues of soil acidification and heavy metal contamination [1]. Furthermore, excessive copper (Cu) levels in the soil incite plant toxicity symptoms, severely compromising plant establishment and growth [2].…”

“…This investigation employs vermicompost and steel slag as soil amendments, utilizing them individually or in conjunction with L. perenne for the amelioration of acidic soils associated with sulfide copper mining. The outlined objectives of this research endeavor are (1) to elucidate the mechanistic intricacies of vermicompost and steel slag via comprehensive characterization analysis; (2) to scrutinize the ramifications of the combined application of vermicompost, steel slag, and L. perenne on the physicochemical attributes of the soil, concomitant with an examination of the bioavailability of copper (Cu); (3) to analytically ascertain the biomass and heavy metal accumulation of L. perenne under the influence of vermicompost and steel slag; and (4) to assess the intricate interplay between soil environmental factors and the nuanced diversity characterizing the soil bacterial community structure.…”

Statewide analysis of U.S. Metal Waste and Industrial Residues Trade Dynamics from 2002 to 2022

“…al., 2023;Velásquez et al, 2022;Zhao et al, 2023). Recommendations stemming from the analysis include the promotion of research and development for the discovery of innovative methods of extraction, recovery, and repurposing, to maximize the economic bene ts obtained from waste, and minimize the environmental and societal impacts.…”