Contamination Potential of an Urban Mine Tailings Deposit in Central Mexico—A Preliminary Estimation

摘要

This study consisted of a geochemical analysis of the Dos Carlos tailings’ deposit located in the Mining District of Pachuca-Real del Monte in the state of Hidalgo, Central Mexico. The goal of the study was to determine the potential effects of this deposit on the environment and health of the population of the metropolitan area of Pachuca. Sampling was conducted from the top to the base of two raised sections at opposite ends of the deposit, and macroscopic features (profiles A and B) of these deposits were evaluated. Subsequently, mineralogical analyses of the collected samples were performed using X-ray diffraction and physico-chemical analysis of the leachates. The results were compared with the maximum permissible limits established by different national and international standards for drinking water and hazardous waste. In addition, geochemical modeling was conducted using PHREEQC to calculate the distribution of aqueous species, ionic activities and saturation indices.(For more information, please refer to the PDF.)