Mineralogy, Geochemistry and Environmental Hazards of Different Types of Mining Waste from a Former Mediterranean Metal Mining Area

Abstract

Mine waste constitutes one of the biggest environmental and management problems, both due to its quantity and its danger when they are rich in toxic elements. There is a wide variety of waste from the oxidation of ores in metal mining areas, both metal sulphide and other minerals. These residues may be enriched in potentially toxic elements that can spread and contaminate ecosystems, farmland and villages. This study has focused on the characterization and evaluation of residues derived from metal-bearing mining waste in abandoned mining areas. Mineralogy and geochemical characteristics were determined by XRD, WDXRF and TG-MS techniques. In addition, DIN 38414-S4 leaching tests were carried out to assess the risk and mobility of potentially toxic elements. Silicates and oxides were found as the main mineral groups, followed by sulphates. These tailings were particularly enriched in Zn, Pb, As, Sb and Cd, while their leachates had high or extreme metal content. Consequently, these mining wastes are considered toxic and hazardous, even for landfills. Sulphides, as the primary source, and sulphates from their oxidation, were the main sources of these pollutants. Sulphates, As, Zn, Cd and Cu determined the specific environmental impact of the different tailing types, which were grouped into different clusters according to their mineralogy and geochemistry. These results provided a better understanding of the environmental hazards associated with the different types of metal mining waste in the area studied.

Distribution, Risk Assessment and Source Identification of Potentially Toxic Elements in Coal Mining Contaminated Soils of Makarwal, Pakistan: Environmental and Human Health Outcomes

“…Coal is the main source of energy and has been thought of as the economic backbone of the country for a long time. However, the coalmine's health and environmental consequences must not be overlooked [1][2][3][4]. Up to 76 of the 92 elements are found naturally in coal.…”

Cement Stabilization of Waste from Contaminated Soils in Terms of Its Installation into Engineered Landfill

“…Such sites can be located underground [7] or aboveground [8,9]. The crucial issue concerning aboveground storage facilities is the protection of groundwaters [10][11][12].…”