Spatial distribution and sources of trace elements in sediments affected by old mining activities

Environ Monit Assess. 2012 Nov;184(11):7041-52. doi: 10.1007/s10661-011-2478-8. Epub 2011 Dec 28.

Abstract

The distribution of trace elements throughout mining areas is an important issue because abandoned tailings could be a major source of environmental pollution. In order to analyze the spatial variation of trace elements in a zone where mining activities took place and to identify pollution sources in the study area, a three-step study was carried out at a regional, at a local, and a detailed scale. In addition, a conceptual model of trace elements dispersion was established and confirmed by a geographic information system. The results obtained allowed to establish points affected by primary, secondary, and tertiary contamination, according to their proximity to contamination sources and as a function of attenuation processes which could take place in the studied area.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Environmental Pollution / statistics & numerical data*
  • Geographic Information Systems
  • Geologic Sediments / chemistry*
  • Mining
  • Soil Pollutants / analysis*
  • Trace Elements / analysis*

Substances

  • Soil Pollutants
  • Trace Elements