Assessment of the distribution and leaching of arsenic in soils near tailing piles Chapter uri icon

abstract

  • Mexico’s history and economy is closely related to mining activities. The study area is located at a 200-year-old mining area near the small town Villa de la Paz, State of San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Two studies were carried out, simple chemical extractions and acid leaching in soil columns. The chemical extraction showed that arsenic is mainly abundant in the residual phase, as many of the tailings have not been able to react with oxygen and water. Only in some samples, As can be found as exchangeable or available. According to Mexican regulations, these soils could be considered a risk to health. Regarding leacheate toxicity, As concentrations are less than 5 mg/L, which imply no risk to the environment. Nevertheless, the application of the Dutch Decree of Materials of Construction (DBMD) in these residues showed that the 435 mg/m2 limit will be exceeded after 20 to 35 years. © 2010 Taylor %26 Francis Group, London.
  • Mexico’s history and economy is closely related to mining activities. The study area is located at a 200-year-old mining area near the small town Villa de la Paz, State of San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Two studies were carried out, simple chemical extractions and acid leaching in soil columns. The chemical extraction showed that arsenic is mainly abundant in the residual phase, as many of the tailings have not been able to react with oxygen and water. Only in some samples, As can be found as exchangeable or available. According to Mexican regulations, these soils could be considered a risk to health. Regarding leacheate toxicity, As concentrations are less than 5 mg/L, which imply no risk to the environment. Nevertheless, the application of the Dutch Decree of Materials of Construction (DBMD) in these residues showed that the 435 mg/m2 limit will be exceeded after 20 to 35 years. © 2010 Taylor & Francis Group, London.

publication date

  • 2010-01-01