Evaluation of water contamination degree in areas affected by coal related activities - Rio grande do sul state, Brazil

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the contamination degree of surface waters, ground waters, and associated sediments affected by coal activities in the Coal region of Rio Grande do Sul State. The following steps are conducted: location of polluter sources, physical–chemical analyses on groundwater and surface waters, and extraction tests in sediments. With the obtained results, it is possible to conclude that the study area evidenced the contamination of surface waters by a direct influence of coal mining and siderurgic activities. With respect to groundwaters, there is a need for more detailed studies that correlate the hydrogeological characteristics of the area with coal wastes disposal time, evaluating more precisely their influence on the water contamination.