Arsenic problems in mine tailings

摘要

Arsenic is an element frequently associated to mining operations around the world. Its long term stability in mine tailings may be a problem due to its particular chemical properties. It has been frequently observed that arsenic goes into dissolution in conditions where other metals are stable. This paper presents a case study of a tailing site where arsenic has been periodically released. Data collected over a nine-year period are presented and analysed. The paper identifies the causes underlying the periodic arsenic release and defines the treatment methods in order to correct the situation.