Geoenvironmental characterization of gold mine tailings from Minas Gerais and Goiás, Brazil

Abstract

For more than two centuries, sulfide gold ores have been treated at metallurgical plants located in Nova Lima, Santa Barbara and Crixás. Brazil. In this study, geochemical, mineralogical, and textural properties of tailings from eight tailings deposits were analysed. The samples show high concentration of Au, hosted in different minerals. In addition, samples contain S, Fe, and As. Sulfides, oxides, and sulfates are present, some as preserved relics. This work highlights different geochemistry and mineralogy, dependent on the nature of the tailings. Such information is critical to support long-term decisions about tailings management and circular economy.