Evaluation of heavy metal contamination in soil and water resources around Taknar copper mine (NE Iran)

Abstract

The study area is located in North Eastern Iran, near Taknar copper deposit where exploration, extraction and processing operations are ongoing. The purpose of this study is to understand the geochemical effects of mining activities in Taknar area and to evaluate the contamination of soil and water resources with heavy metals. The results of pollution indices such as CF, Igeo and EF and multivariate (geo)statistical analysis indicate anthropogenic source for Cu and Se elements, mostly related to mining and mineral processing activities, natural origin of Cr, Ni and Co and both anthropogenic and natural origin for Zn, Pb, Cd, As, Sb and Mo elements. The results also indicate the water and soil of the flotation plant and mining tunnels can be harmful. Fortunately, the water resources used by the staff, downstream aqueduct of the mine and the water of the villages in the south of the mine are free of contaminated elements.