Contaminant transport mechanisms at an abandoned sulfide mine

Abstract

An investigation at an abandoned, open-pit mine (Kokkinopezoula, Cyprus) concluded that environmental contamination has been transported by both mechanical and chemical mechanisms. The conclusion is based on several data sets, which were analysed using hierarchical clustering. Water samples were collected from the open pit during two different seasons of the year and from a creek located to the southeast of the pit and were analysed for pH and metal content. The results showed low pH and high metal content for the water samples collected from the open pit. Soil samples were collected from 32 locations (two depths each) chosen in relation to the geology and topography of the area, as well as to the mineralogy and alteration intensity of the waste dumps. The soil samples were analysed for their pH and element content with an analytical method that combines inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy, after complete digestion of the samples. Similarities in composition were used to conclude that the dominant contaminant transport mechanism is fluvial in nature, as well as a degree of chemical weathering/precipitation, but not Aeolian. This conclusion is important in the future design of a remediation strategy for the site.