Environmental Implications of Saline Efflorescence Associated with Metallic Mining Waste in a Mediterranean Region

Salt efflorescences from metal sulphides and their waste are important drivers of pollution both in around mining areas. However, little is known about these supergene minerals, particularly the areas Mediterranean. This study aims to characterise saline leachates a Mediterranean area located Southeast Spain. The physicochemical characteristics were determined using stereomicroscopy compositional analysis, with following techniques: XRD, WDXRF TG-MS. Additionally, assess risk potential mobility analytes, samples subjected leaching test DIN 38414-S4. results showed that salt presented wide range crystalline habits colours. Sulphates by far largest mineral group, followed silicates, oxides sulphides. Their geochemistry was dominated elements such as S or Fe, although other potentially toxic Cd, As, Zn, Pb, Ni Cu also present. Due high metal(loid) concentrations, crusts studied may act sources environmental contaminants, demonstrating pose considerable soil drinking water quality. An analysis correlations provenances components revealed possible presence some rare minerals great interest, cuprocopiapite Pb-As-jarosite.