ABSTRACT
New detailed data concerning mineral chemistry using modern microanalytical techniques (PIXE and electron microprobe) were used to evaluate the geoavailability of chemical elements and the potential of environmental contamination in the Bonfim deposit. The results show that As, Ag, Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn, Ni, Se, Bi, Te and Mo are the main environmental elements detected. Except for Mn, all of these elements mainly occur in sulfides. This study reveals the geoavailability of some chemical elements of environmental concerns in the tailings of the Bonfim mine. Additionally, the cyanide ore processing executed at this mine may increase the potentiality for environmental contamination, since cyanide could enhance the release of some elements to the environment.
