Mineralogical and Photochemical Insights into Pollution Characteristics of Aerosols from Beneficiation Chemicals in a Typical Chinese Pb/Zn Mining Area

Abstract

Aerosols in mining zones is crucial for uncovering the migration and transformation of possible toxic metals (PTMs) and beneficiation chemicals pollution, necessitating thorough research into aerosols’ pollution properties during mining and smelting to lessen their effects on the inhabitants. The research undertook an extensive analysis of the dispersal, movement patterns, and the photochemical transformation process, focusing on pollution traits and simulated aerosol tests from beneficiation chemicals in a standard Pb/Zn mining zone. Findings revealed the existence of CS2, SO2, and H2S in the atmosphere, along with a remarkably elevated levels of Pb, Zn, As, and Cd in aerosol particles, surpassing the standard by 10 times. Aerosols primarily originate from these metals and their derivatives, along with a range of secondary minerals. Whole-product analysis reveals that the decomposition and degradation were the two process dominating the conversion of common mineral processing agents like potassium butyl xanthate (PBX) and diethyldithiocarbamate (DDTC). The Mineralogical and photochemical study shows that aerosols particles possess a photo-response and catalytic properties, which can yield free radicals (•OH) via the photocatalytic process and facilitate the degradation. Aerosol particles in Pb/Zn mining areas have been found to significantly affect the rate of conversion of sulfur-containing compounds and the distribution of products, resulting in varying degrees of environmental impact. Typically, mineral processing facilities and tailings regions ought to focus more on aerosol pollution and its by-products.

Keywords: Pb/Zn mining area, Aerosol, Beneficiation Chemicals, Photochemical, Transformation