Abstract
To pinpoint the origin and mixing processes of mine waters, different mine water types from the polymetallic sulphide ore deposit ‘Himmelfahrt Fundgrube’ (Freiberg, Germany) were analysed by thermal ionisation mass spectrometry using lead and strontium isotope ratios. Results show that the lead isotope composition of different mine waters results from a mixture of at least two sources: released lead from oxidised sulphide ores (mainly galena) and anthropogenic lead from groundwater. Furthermore, there are indications for an additional lead source. Strontium isotopes in mine waters identify at least three different sources: released strontium from weathered host rock (Grey Gneisses), released strontium from weathered gangue carbonates, and probably strontium from anthropogenic inputs. Contrary to former oxygen and sulphur isotope studies, strontium isotope compositions as well as hydrochemical parameters show the important role of gangue carbonates as an element source in mine waters. Revised version of a paper presented at the 27th Annual Meeting of the German Association for Stable Isotope Research (GASIR), October, 4–6, 2006, Freiberg, Germany.
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