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Field-scale study of the influence of differing remediation strategies on trace metal geochemistry in metal mine tailings from the Irish Midlands

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Abstract

Mine tailings represent a globally significant source of potentially harmful elements (PHEs) to the environment. The management of large volumes of mine tailings represents a major challenge to the mining industry and environmental managers. This field-scale study evaluates the impact of two highly contrasting remediation approaches to the management and stabilisation of mine tailings. The geochemistry of the tailings, overlying amendment layers and vegetation are examined in the light of the different management approaches. Pseudo-total As, Cd and Pb concentrations and solid-state partitioning (speciation), determined via sequential extraction, were established for two Tailings Management Facilities (TMFs) in Ireland subjected to the following: (1) a ‘walk-away’ approach (Silvermines) and (2) application of an amendment layer (Galmoy). PHE concentrations in roots and herbage of grasses growing on the TMFs were also determined. Results identify very different PHE concentration profiles with depth through the TMFs and the impact of remediation approach on concentrations and their potential bioavailability in the rooting zone of grass species. Data also highlight the importance of choice of grass species in remediation approaches and the benefits of relatively shallow-rooting Agrostis capillaris and Festuca rubra varieties. In addition, data from the Galmoy TMF indicate the importance of regional soil geochemistry for interpreting the influence of the PHE geochemistry of capping and amendment layers applied to mine tailings.

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Acknowledgments

The authors (WP and GB) would like to acknowledge the Joy Welch Memorial Fund (via Aberystwyth University) for financial support that facilitated fieldwork and Mr Andy Brown (Aberystwyth University) for laboratory assistance. WP and GB also acknowledge John Stapleton and Cormac Lloyd for their assistance during the planning of this research and during fieldwork at Galmoy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DB, UK

    William T. Perkins

  2. School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2UW, UK

    Graham Bird

  3. Institute of Meteorology and Climate Research, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Kreuzeckbahnstraße 19, 82467, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

    Suzanne R. Jacobs

  4. Lundin Mining UK Ltd, Hayworthe House, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 1DB, UK

    Cora Devoy

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  1. William T. Perkins
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  2. Graham Bird
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  4. Cora Devoy
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Correspondence to Graham Bird.

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Responsible editor: Elena Maestri

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Perkins, W.T., Bird, G., Jacobs, S.R. et al. Field-scale study of the influence of differing remediation strategies on trace metal geochemistry in metal mine tailings from the Irish Midlands. Environ Sci Pollut Res 23, 5592–5608 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-015-5725-7

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