Abstract
Mine waste can constitute an environmental hazard, especially when poorly managed. Environmental assessment is essential for estimating potential threats and optimizing mine waste management. This study evaluated the potential environmental risk of sulfidic mine waste samples originating from the Neves Corvo Mine, Portugal, and the closed Freiberg mining district, Germany. Metal(loid)s in the waste samples were partitioned into seven operationally defined fractions using the Zeien and Brummer sequential extraction scheme. The results showed similar partitioning patterns for the elements in the waste rock and tailing samples from Neves Corvo Mine; most metal(loid)s showed lower mobility, as they were mainly residual-bound. On the contrary, the Freiberg tailing sample had considerably elevated (24–37%) mobile fractions of Zn, Co, Cd, and Mn. The majority of Fe (83–96%) in all samples was retained in the residual fractions, while Ca was highly mobile. Overall, Pb was the most mobile toxic element in the three samples. A large portion of Pb (32–57%) was predominantly found in the most mobilizable fractions of the studied waste samples. This study revealed that the three mine wastes have contamination potential for Pb and Zn, which can be easily released into the environment from these waste sources.
Highlights
The processing and extraction of mineral resources such as ores give rise to mine waste, one of the major waste streams in the EU
This study revealed that the three mine wastes have contamination potential for Pb and Zn, which can be released into the environment from these waste sources
They are typically stored in tailings storage facilities (TSF) or ponds, which are usually surrounded by dams [2]
Summary
The processing and extraction of mineral resources such as ores give rise to mine waste, one of the major waste streams in the EU. Compared to all other waste generated due to human activities, mining activities produce the highest volume of waste and have the most harmful effects on the environment [1]. Tailings consist of fine-grained waste generated during mineral processing (beneficiation) of mined ore and after the extraction of valuable minerals, usually containing elevated amounts of metals and residual processing chemicals. They are typically stored in tailings storage facilities (TSF) or ponds, which are usually surrounded by dams [2]. Mine waste poses a major risk to the environment due to the significant levels of metal(loid)s present in them and the likely tendency of sulfidic mine waste to form acid mine drainage [3]. The assessment of environmental risks associated with mine waste could provide valuable information in order to better manage mine waste dumps and possibly reduce their impact on the environment and human health
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