Spatial evolution of an AMD stream in the Iberian Pyrite Belt: process characterization and control factors on the hydrochemistry |
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| Authors: | José Antonio Grande María Luisa De La Torre María Santisteban Teresa Valente José Paulino Fernandez Eva Pérez-Ostalé |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Centro de Investigación para la Ingeniería en Minería Sostenible, Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spaingrangil@uhu.es;3. Centro de Investigación para la Ingeniería en Minería Sostenible, Universidad de Huelva, Huelva, Spain;4. Departamento de Ciências da Terra, Universidade do Minho, Braga, Portugal;5. Departamento de Explotación y Prospección de Minas, Universidad de Oviedo, Mieres, Spain |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACTThis paper presents hydrochemical data of an AMD stream, Poderosa Creek, in the Iberian Pyrite Belt, obtained between its source, in the Poderosa Mine portal, and its confluence with the Odiel River. The main objective is to establish potential interdependent relationships between sulphate and metal loads and the following physico-chemical variables: pH, electrical conductivity (EC), redox potential (EH) and dissolved oxygen (DO). All the parameters show an overall increasing tendency from the tunnel exit to the confluence at the Odiel River. The TDS and EC are two relevant exceptions. They behave similarly, showing a decreasing trend and a strong inflection that describes a minimum immediately after the discharging point. Spatial analysis combined with statistical tools reveal typical AMD processes and the respective physico-chemical implications. Inputs with distinctive hydrochemical signatures impose relevant modifications in the Poderosa Creek waters. This indicates low hydrochemical inertia and high vulnerability to external stimuli. Editor D. Koutsoyiannis; Associate editor not assigned |
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| Keywords: | AMD Iberian Pyrite Belt Odiel River Poderosa Mine cluster analysis |
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