Differentiating dilution and retention processes in mine effluent remediation within a natural wetland on the Zambian Copperbelt

摘要: Abstract The use of wetlands to treat mine effluent has grown in popularity over the past two decades, although processes by which natural systems function are often poorly understood. This field-scale investigation utilises daily data a 9-month period assessing leading remediation within wetland on Zambian Copperbelt. study differentiates through dilution from pollutant retention. Decreased outflow concentrations SO4 and Na due only, while Co (50%) especially Cu (83%) retained wetland. Retention was linked adsorption onto new or primed surfaces during an initial release into system related pH buffering 7.5. wetland’s acid capacity largely result carbonate-rich groundwater discharge Although this likely shows little seasonal fluctuation (20–80 kmol/day), impact acidic input itself probably varies markedly between seasons, owing temporal spatial characteristics catchment’s aquifers. Assessment other region indicated that some (circa 15%) showed similar catchment size, hydrochemical hydrogeological as those New Dam wetland, demonstrating potential described here.