Geochemistry of thallium in lead-zinc tailings

Authors: Allen, DG Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1008_28_Allen

Cite As:
Allen, DG 2010, 'Geochemistry of thallium in lead-zinc tailings', in R Jewell & AB Fourie (eds), Mine Waste 2010: Proceedings of the First International Seminar on the Reduction of Risk in the Management of Tailings and Mine Waste, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 321-331, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1008_28_Allen



Abstract:
Procedures for characterising mining wastes in Western Australia tend to focus on potential for producing acid rock drainage (ARD). However, many types of mining waste produce neutral or slightly alkaline drainage, which is usually considered environmentally benign from a geochemical perspective. This paper provides an example of potential contamination of the environment by the heavy metal thallium in alkaline seepage from lead-zinc mines. By understanding the geochemistry of thallium and other potential contaminants, an appropriate cover design for two tailings storage facilities (TSFs) in the north of Western Australia have been developed. The effectiveness of the soil covers has been demonstrated in a controlled field trial and by ongoing groundwater monitoring.

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