Geochemical Characteristics of Mine Wastes in Abandoned Mines in Korea

휴/폐광 광산폐기물의 지구화학적 특성

  • 정명채 (세명대학교 자원환경공학과) ;
  • 정영욱 (한국자원연구소 자원연구부) ;
  • 민정식 (한국자원연구소 자원연구부)
  • Published : 1998.11.01

Abstract

The objective of this study is to investigate geochemical characteristics of mine wastes including tailings in various abandoned mines in Korea. Tailings and wastes were sampled in and around 39 metalliferous mines, and analysed heavy metal concentrations including Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn extracted by 0.1N HCl and aqua regia by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Measurements of paste pH and lime requirement were carried out to examine a general geochemical characteristics of the materials. Lots of mine wastes were characterized by very low pH values of 2 to 4 and high lime requirement to control neutralization of the wastes. In addition, elevated levels of heavy metals were found in various mine wastes extracted by both 0.lN HCl and aqua regia. Because the mine wastes can be dispersed into the downstream by clastic movement and wind-blow, it is necessary to control the materials with a proper method for their reclamation.

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