Analysis of mine waste by geochemical and geophysical methods (a case study of the mine tailing dump of the Salair ore-processing plant)

Integrated study of the Dyukov Log dump of sulfide-containing mine tailings of the Salair ore-processing plant (SOP) was performed using geophysical and geochemical methods. Geochemical data and results of electromagnetic-frequency sounding and electrical-resistivity tomography were used to establish the geoelectric zoning of the tailings and the relations between the electrical parameters of the environment and the chemical composition of the tailings and pore water. The proposed approach will make it possible in the future to evaluate the amount of tailings. The drainage water flow paths were determined, and the penetration of highly saline industrial solutions into groundwater was proved.