Geochemical processes controlling mobilization of arsenic and Trace Elements in shallow aquifers in mining regions, Bolivian Altiplano

O. E. Ramos Ramos, I. Quino, J. Quintanilla, P. Bhattacharya, J. Bundschuh

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

A geochemical approach was applied to understand the factors controlling the mobilization of As and trace elements (TEs) in these mining areas. A total of 30 samples (wells and geothermal water) were collected during the rainy season (2009). As, Cd and Mn concentrations exceed WHO drinking guidelines in some groundwater samples, but Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn do not. Factor analysis of the groundwater chemical data suggests the following geochemical processes: i) plagioclase weathering, ii) dissolution of gypsum and halite, iii) trace element mobilization at acidic pH, iv) sulfide oxidation, and v) release of As following competition with phosphate and bicarbonate for adsorption sites. The As and TEs mobilized in these regions could affect the local water sources, which is a prevalent concern with respect to water resource management in this semi-arid Altiplano region.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOne Century of the Discovery of Arsenicosis in Latin America (1914-2014)
Subtitle of host publicationAs 2014 - Proceedings of the 5th International Congress on Arsenic in the Environment
PublisherCRC Press/Balkema
Pages239-241
Number of pages3
ISBN (Print)9781138001411
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
Event5th International Congress on Arsenic in the Environment, As 2014 - Buenos Aires, Argentina
Duration: 11 May 201416 May 2014

Publication series

NameOne Century of the Discovery of Arsenicosis in Latin America (1914-2014): As 2014 - Proceedings of the 5th International Congress on Arsenic in the Environment

Conference

Conference5th International Congress on Arsenic in the Environment, As 2014
Country/TerritoryArgentina
CityBuenos Aires
Period11/05/1416/05/14

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