Hydrochemistry, mineralogy and sulfur isotope geochemistry of acid mine drainage at the Mt. Morgan mine environment, Queensland, Australia

摘要: Mineralogical, hydrochemical and S isotope data were used to constrain hydrogeochemical processes that produce acid mine drainage from sulfidic waste at the historic Mount Morgan Au–Cu mine, factors controlling concentration of SO4 environmentally hazardous metals in nearby Dee River Queensland, Australia. Some highly contaminated waters, with metal contents up hundreds orders magnitude greater than Australia–New Zealand environmental standards, by-pass water management system site drain into adjacent River. Mine precipitates Mt. classified 4 major groups identified as hydrous sulfates hydroxides Fe Al various other metals. These minerals contain adsorbed or mineralogically bound are released after rainfall events. Sulfate open pit collection sumps generally has a narrow range compositions (δ34S = 1.8–3.7‰) is comparable orebody sulfides makes isotopes useful for tracing back its source. The higher δ34S values No. 2 Mill Diesel sump may be attributed difference Dissolved river above influence 20 km downstream show distinctive heavier 5.4–6.8‰). enriched 34S 2.8–5.4‰) compared possibly result bacterial reduction weir pools, bodies within channel. attenuate by combination dilution receiving reduction, precipitation hydroxides. It suggested here subtropical distinct wet dry seasons, temporary reducing environments play an important role systematics