A Multidisciplinary Approach for the Assessment of Origin, Fate and Ecotoxicity of Metal(loid)s from Legacy Coal Mine Tailings.

Over the course of history, the development of human societies implied the exploitation of mineral resources which generated huge amounts of mining wastes leading to substantial environmental contamination by various metal(loid)s. This is especially the case of coal mine tailings which, subjected to weathering reactions, produce acid mine drainage (AMD), a recurring ecological issue related to current and past mining activities. In this study, we aimed to determine the origin, the fate and the ecotoxicity of metal(loid)s leached from a historical coal tailing heap to the Beuveroux river (Franche-Comté, France) using a combination of mineralogical, chemical and biological approaches.

Origin, fate and ecotoxicity of manganese from legacy metallurgical wastes.

Over the course of history, mining and metallurgical activities have influenced the socioeconomic development of human populations. However, these past and current activities can also lead to substantial environmental contamination by various metals. Here, we used an interdisciplinary approach (incorporating archaeology, mineralogy, environmental chemistry and ecotoxicology) to investigate the origin, fate and potential ecotoxicity of anomalous manganese (Mn) concentrations detected in the ancient mining district of Berthelange (medieval period, eastern France).

Impact of ancient iron smelting wastes on current soils: Legacy contamination, environmental availability and fractionation of metals.

Past and present metallurgical activity is the origin of the metallic contamination of some current soils. The purpose of this research is to assess the environmental risk of ancient Fe smelting wastes to the terrestrial compartment. For this purpose, two study sites were investigated in Bourgogne-Franche Comté (France).