MERCURY POLLUTION FROM THE PAST MINING OF GOLD AND SILVER IN THE AMERICAS

摘要: The development of the patio amalgamation process into an industrial scale operation in 1554 stimulated massive production silver New World but left behind unprecedented quantity mercury pollution. annual loss mines Spanish America averaged 612 tonnes/year (range 292-1085 tonnes/year) between 1580 and 1900. importation United States ranged from 268 to 2820 - 1360 1850 Approximately 90% consumed during this period was employed gold extraction. cumulative losses environment due precious metals Americas totalled 257 400 tonnes, with 196 000 tonnes dispersed South Central 61 380 States. 60-65% lost is believed have been released atmosphere, suggesting that were a dominant source atmospheric Because its high volatility, any deposited can readily be re-emitted atmosphere. continuing recycling large mass may partly responsible for fluxes many parts North background levels global environment.