Changes in groundwater chemistry due to metallurgical activities in an alluvial aquifer in the Moa area (Cuba)

Abstract

The aim of this work is to evaluate the changes in groundwater chemistry in an alluvial aquifer in the Moa area. Surface and ground water, metallurgical waste and various geological material samples were collected in order to evaluate groundwater composition. The results show that the alluvial aquifer is polluted with SO42-, Mg2+and heavy metals. According to its major components in the alluvial aquifer, two types of groundwater are identified: magnesi-bicarbonated and sulphate-magnesic. Maximum SO42− and Mg2+ contents are more than 1000 mg/L, and are four times higher than the acceptable levels for human consumption of water. The high values of Cr(VI), Ni(II), Mn(II) Fe(total), SO42− and Mg2+ in alluvial aquifers are due to polluted recharge from metallurgical waste from the tailing dam. This recharge is favoured by the preferential flow due to desiccation cracks in metallurgical waste. Geochemical modelling showed that potentially toxic heavy metals might exist largely in the forms of MSO42− and M2+ in pore water of SAL metallurgical waste. All samples were supersaturated in goethite and hematite. Results from batch testing indicate that the heavy metals have two origins: natural, due to the existing ultramaphic rocks and laterites, and anthropogenic, by metallurgical waste rich in sulphate and (oxy)hydroxide minerals. These results highlight the need to locate and evaluate a new water source to supply the population of the city of Moa.