scholarly journals Evaluation of the impact of gold mining activities on the waters and sediments of Lom River, Wakaso, Cameroon and the restorative effect of Moringa Oleifera seeds

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (7) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mouhamed Ayiwouo Ngounouno ◽  
Luc Leroy Mambou Ngueyep ◽  
Sifeu Takougang Kingni ◽  
Sirri Neba Nforsoh ◽  
Ismaila Ngounouno

AbstractThe impact of gold mining activities on the Lom River in Wakaso (Adamawa Cameroon) and the potential of Moringa Oleifera seeds for the removal of pollutants from wastewater is evaluated on this paper. Water samples were collected for physicochemical (hydrogen potential, electrical conductivity, turbidity and suspended solids) and chemical (major ions and heavy metals) analyses. To evaluate the effect of mining activities on waters and sediments, a combination of multivariate statistical analysis (MSA) and methods to assess the sediment quality was used. The restorative effect of Moringa oleifera seeds was studied with the determination of the maximum removal efficiencies and the maximum adsorption capacities. The results of the physicochemical characterization of waters showed that these waters were slightly acidic to slightly basic (6.12–8.12), weakly conductive (185.8–584.1 μS cm−1), turbid (345–801NTU) and had high content of suspended solids (167–700 mg L−1). The average concentrations of studied heavy metals (Ni, Cd, Fe, Mn, As and Hg) in waters exceeded the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Physicochemical characterization of sediments revealed that they were acidic to neutral (5.95–6.80) and organic matter (OM) content ranged from 11.11 to 15.78%. The concentrations of studied trace metals (Ni, Cd, Fe, Hg, Mn and As) in sediments were below the limits recommended by the WHO except for Cd and Hg. The study of the capacity of Moringa oleifera seeds to remove pollutants in waters showed that 54% of the electrical conductivity, 80% of turbidity and 94% of suspended solids were reduced. The maximum removal efficiency of 91.66, 92.30 and 24.48 and the maximum adsorption capacity of 2.4, 2.6 and 16.6 mg g−1were observed for Cd (II), Hg (II) and Fe (II), respectively. Thus, the Moringa oleifera seeds which are locally available natural bio-adsorbent exhibit attractive property to treat wastewater.

Scientifica ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-12
Author(s):  
Mambou Ngueyep Luc Leroy ◽  
Mache Jacques Richard ◽  
Ayiwouo Ngounouno Mouhamed ◽  
Takougang Kingni Sifeu ◽  
Abende Sayom Reynolds Yvan ◽  
...  

This paper, firstly, characterizes the mining waste of the Betare-Oya gold area (East Cameroon). Surface waters are sampled and characterized physically (pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, and suspended solids) and chemically by the determination of trace metals (Cu, Zn, Ni, Mn, Fe, Cr, As, and Pb). The concentrations of heavy metals in sediment samples are determined by X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF) analysis. The statistical analysis tool is used to determine the existing correlation between the different physicochemical parameters. Secondly, an adsorption test for heavy metals determined is carried out on smectic clay of Sabga (North-West Cameroon) at ambient temperature. The results of physicochemical characterization of water samples reveal that waters of this gold mining zone are slightly acidic to neutral (6.3 pH < 7.1), mineralized (18.54 EC < 43 μs.cm−1), turbid (60 SS < 237.67 NTU), and polluted by suspended solids (50.5 < SS < 666.6 mg L−1).The determination of heavy metals in water samples shows that manganese, iron, arsenic, and lead concentrations are above the World Health Organization (WHO) limits. This indicates pollution. High concentrations of heavy metals as Cu, Ni, Mn, Fe, and Cr are observed in sediment samples. The correlation analysis indicates high correlations between turbidity and suspended solids; cadmium and lead in water samples; and copper and iron in sediment samples. The adsorption test reveals that the maximum percentage removal is 60, 89, 55, −89.74, and 100% for Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, and Pb, respectively, after adding 0.5 g of Sabga smectic clay. This clay has a good potential adsorption of lead, zinc, manganese, and copper. However, the operating conditions favored desorption of iron.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (14) ◽  
pp. 6592
Author(s):  
Ana Moldovan ◽  
Maria-Alexandra Hoaghia ◽  
Anamaria Iulia Török ◽  
Marius Roman ◽  
Ionut Cornel Mirea ◽  
...  

This study aims to investigate the quality and vulnerability of surface water (Aries River catchment) in order to identify the impact of past mining activities. For this purpose, the pollution and water quality indices, Piper and Durov plots, as well vulnerability modeling maps were used. The obtained results indicate that the water samples were contaminated with As, Fe, Mn, Pb and have relatively high concentrations of SO42−, HCO3−, TDS, Ca, K, Mg and high values for the electrical conductivity. Possible sources of the high content of chemicals could be the natural processes or the inputs of the mine drainage. Generally, according to the pollution indices, which were correlated to high concentrations of heavy metals, especially with Pb, Fe and Mn, the water samples were characterized by heavy metals pollution. The water quality index classified the studied water samples into five different classes of quality, namely: unsuitable for drinking, poor, medium, good and excellent quality. Similarly, medium, high and very high vulnerability classes were observed. The Durov and Piper plots classified the waters into Mg-HCO3− and Ca-Cl− types. The past and present mining activities clearly change the water chemistry and alter the quality of the Aries River, with the water requiring specific treatments before use.


2017 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
pp. 251
Author(s):  
Rita Yulianti ◽  
Emi Sukiyah ◽  
Nana Sulaksana

Daerah penelitian terletak di desa Muaro Limun, Kecamatan Limun Kabupaten Sarolangun Provinsi Jambi. Sungai limun, salah satu sungai besar di daerah kabupaten sarolangun yang dimanfaatkan oleh mayarakat sekitarnya sebagai sumber penghidupan. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh kegiatan penambangan terhadap kualitas air sungai Batang Limun, dan perubahan sifat fisik dan  kimia yang diakibatkan   kegiatan penambangan.Metode yang digunakan adalah  metode grab sampel, serta stream sedimen untuk dianalis di laboratorium. Sejumlah sampel diambil di beberapa lokasi Penambangan Emas berdasarkan Aliran Sub-DAS dan dibandingkan dengan beberapa sampel lain yang diambil pada lokasi yang belum terkontaminasi oleh kegiatan penambangan. Analisis kualitas air mengacu pada  SMEWWke 22 tahun 2012 dan standar baku mutu air kelas II dalam PP No 82 yang dikeluarkan oleh Menteri Kesehatan No. 492/Menkes/Per/IV/2010. Diketahui sungai Batang Limun telah mengalami perubahan karakteristik fisika dan kimia. Dari grafik  kosentrasi kekeruhan, pH, TSS, TDS  Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn, Hg terlihat bahwa penambang emas tanpa izin (PETI) dengan cara amalgamasi yang menyebabkan terjadinya penurunan kualitas air sungai. Sejak tahun 2009 sampai tahun 2015  sungai Limun dan sekitarnya terus mengalami penurunan kualitas air. Penurunan kualitas yang cukup tinggi terjadi  yaitu peningkatan nilai Rata-rata konsentrasi merkuri pada sungai Batang Limun dari 0,18ppb (0,00018 mg/l)  menjadi 0,3ppb (0,0003 mg/l), peningkatan tersebut dipengaruhi oleh proses kegiatan penambangan dan nilai tersebut masih dibawah standar baku mutu air kelas II  pp nomor 82 tahun 2010.Kata kunci :   Kualitas Air, Sungai Limun,TSS, Merkuri, PETI Limun river is one of the major rivers in the area of Sarolangun, which utilized by the society as a source of livelihood. The aim of study  to analyze the effect of mining activities on  the water quality of Batang Limun River, and the changes of physical and chemical properties of water. The method used are grab  and stream samples to  sediment analyzed in the laboratory. A number of samples were taken at several locations based Flow Gold Mining Sub-watershed and compared to some other samples taken at the location that has not been contaminated by mining activities. Water quality analysis referring to SMEWW, 22nd edition 2012 and refers to Regulation No 82 that issued by Minister of Health No. 492 / Menkes / Per / IV / 2010.The results showed that the Limun river has undergone chemical changes in physical characteristics. These symptoms can be seen from the discoloration of clear water in the river before the mine becomes brownish after mining, based on graphic of muddiness concentration: pH, TSS, TDS Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn, Hg have seen that  the illegal miner which used amalgamation caused deterioration in water quality, data from 2009 to 2015 Limun river and surrounding areas continue to experience a decrease in water quality. The decreasing of water quality showed in the TSS parameter which found in the area is to high based on  the standard of water quality class II pp number 82 of 2010. An increase in the value of average concentrations of mercury in the Batang Limun river before mine 0,18ppb (0.00018 mg / l) into 0,3ppb (0.0003 mg / l) on the river after the mine. The increase was affected by the mining activities and the value is still below the air quality standard Grade II pp numbers 82 years 2010, although the value is still below with the standards quality standard, the mercury levels in water should still be a major concern because if it accumulates continuously in the water levels will increase and will be bad for health. In contrast to the concentration of mercury in sediments that have a higher value is 153 ppb (0,513ppm ) .Key Words :   Water Quality, Limun River, Mercury, Illegal gold mining


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 90-96
Author(s):  
Debbi V Pattimahu ◽  
Antho Netty Siahaya ◽  
Terezia V Pattimahu

Natural resource management that does not pay attention to the principles of conservation of natural resources and the environment will have negative implications for environmental sustainability. With the discovery of gold on the coast of Tamiouw Village at this time, residents' activities have shifted to gold mining activities in the coastal area of Tamilouw. This study aims to determine the impact of gold mining on the physical environment in Tamilouw Village, Amahai District, Central Maluku Regency, as well as to determine the impact of gold mining on the social and economic environment of the local community. The research  was  conducted  using  non-experimental  methods,  namely exploratory descriptive,  field observations  and literature study. The results showed that gold mining carried out in Tamilouw Village uses mercury in the process of separating gold from sand, although there are also some people who carryout traditional processing. What some people are worried about is that the disposal of mercury waste is not carried out according to the required procedures, so that it will have an impact on environmental damage. The existence of mining activities does not affect the social aspects, namely education, health and age and gender; while from the economic aspect, it also contributes to increasing people's income. Keywords : Gold mining, environment, Tamilouw Villageout traditional processing. What some people are worried about is that the disposal of mercury waste is not carried out according to the required procedures, so that it will have an impact on environmental damage. The existence of mining activities does not affect the social aspects, namely education, health and age and gender; while from the economic aspect, it also contributes to increasing people's income.


2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (27) ◽  
pp. 200911
Author(s):  
Aung Zaw Tun ◽  
Pokkate Wongsasuluk ◽  
Wattasit Siriwong

Background. Artisanal and small-scale mining activities are widely practiced globally. Concentrations of heavy metals associated with gold, such as copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) can increase in the environment as a result of mining activities, leading to environmental pollution and pose toxicity risks to humans and animals. Objectives. The aim of the present study was to investigate soil concentrations of toxic heavy metals in placer small-scale gold mining operations in Myanmar. Methods. Soil samples were collected from three placer small-scale gold mining sites: Site A located in the Hmawbon public protected forest, Site B and Site C, situated in the Nant-Kyin reserved forest around Nar Nant Htun village. At each site, soil samples were collected from four gold mining stages (ore processing, sluicing, panning, and amalgamation). Atomic absorption spectroscopy was utilized to examine the concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Hg. Results. The highest heavy metal concentrations were generally found in the amalgamation stages across all the gold mining sites. Across the three mining sites, the maximum heavy metal concentrations in the amalgamation stage were 22.170 mg.kg−1 for As, 3.070 mg.kg−1 for Cd, 77.440 mg.kg−1 for Hg, and 210.000 mg.kg−1 for Pb. Conclusions. The present study examined the concentrations of As, Cd, Hg and Pb in the soil of several small-scale gold mining sites in Banmauk Township, Myanmar. The results demonstrated the presence of high concentrations of heavy metals in the soil of the gold mining sites. Miners in this area work without proper personal protective equipment, and frequent exposure to heavy metals in the soil may cause adverse health effects. The present study provides baseline data for future risk assessment studies of heavy metal contamination in gold mines. Competing Interests. The authors declare no competing financial interests


Author(s):  
Mahsa Jahangiri-rad ◽  
Mohsen Shariati ◽  
Mahdieh Yaaghoubi ◽  
Ali Haghmoradkhani ◽  
Abbas Akbarzadeh

Introduction: Inappropriate management of mining activities may bring about water pollution and pose a heavy complication on aquatic ecosystem and humans. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of Qorveh gold mining activities on the quality of nearby groundwater. Materials and Methods: The concentration of seven eco-toxic metals along with some general hydrochemical parameters were investigated for 27 sampling stations in the study area using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) and conventional hydrochemical methods. The analysis results were further applied to compute pollution indices, namely heavy metal pollution index (HPI) for irrigation purposes. Results: The main elements were within the World Health Organization (WHO) and Iranian National Water Standards (INWS) for irrigation water quality, except for NH4+ in some sampling points. The concentration of heavy metals followed the order Cu > Zn > Pb > Hg > Cd > As. The contents of Hg, As, Cd, and Cu in most sites were higher than the recommended values. Except for two stations, the value of HPI based on the mean concentration was found to be far beyond the critical pollution index value of 100, suggesting that the area is highly polluted with some heavy metals. Conclusion: Elevated concentration of trace elements found in groundwater of this area represented the release of harmful elements from gold mining activities on surrounding environment.


BioResources ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
pp. 3272-3284
Author(s):  
Tarek M. Abdel Ghany ◽  
Mohamed S. Mahmoud ◽  
Mohamed M. Alawlaqi ◽  
Ahmed M. Reyad ◽  
Aisha M. H. Al-Rajhi ◽  
...  

Water safety and security has become a great problem in recent years, as the shortage of water resources in most countries is becoming an increasingly serious issue. Therefore, searching for new water sources or treating contaminated water has become a major requirement to covering the shortage of fresh water. The current study evaluated the impact of Trichoderma asperellum on the physicochemical characterization of agricultural run-off (AR) compared with groundwater (GW). Chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD5), ammonia, total nitrogen (TN), and total dissolved salts (TDS) of AR were higher than that of GW with 90, 90.2, 91.9, 78, and 61.6%, respectively. The addition of T. asperellum to AR caused the COD, BOD5, ammonia, TN, and TDS to decrease 47.2, 39.2, 16.2, 12.9, and 4.8%, respectively. Contents of metals in AR or GW were decreased by T. asperellum. Microbial analysis of soil irrigated by AR in contrast to irrigated by GW showed the presence of a high number of bacteria (32 × 106 CFU), actinomycetes (18 × 104 CFU), and fungi (13 × 104 CFU). Trifolium alexandrinum growth and its antioxidant enzymes activities (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and ascorbate peroxidase) were enhanced by AR inoculated by T. asperellum compared with un-inoculated AR or GW.


2021 ◽  
Vol 240 ◽  
pp. 02006
Author(s):  
Saadia Asouam ◽  
Farid Faik ◽  
Zine El Abidine El Morjani

The aim of this work was to study the physicochemical characterization and heavy metal testing results carried out for leachate generated by the landfilling of household and similar waste in the Tamellast landfill of Agadir. The surface and groundwater resource (often used as drinking source) samples collected from Tamellast and different water sources wells surrounding the landfill were used to find out the impact of leachate percolation on surface and groundwater quality. The Physico-chemical parameters analyzed were, pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Dissolved oxygen, Sodium, Potassium, while biological parameters tested were Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), E.Coli and Coliform tot. The contamination was investigated by measuring the concentration of heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Cr, Ni, As, and Fe). The Electrical Conductivity (EC), COD, BOD, Sodium, Potassium, in leachate were found to be 13180 µs/cm, 3150 mgO2/l, 1000 mgO2/l, 2000 mg/L, and 10700 mg/L, respectively. The concentration in the surrounding dug wells varied from 8.33 – 9.13 mg/L for Dissolved Oxygen, 9.8 – 18 mg/L for potassium, 0.22 – 0.6 mg/L for Fe, and 0.012 – 0.1 mg/L for total Mn. The concentration of Mn, Fe, and other parameters decreased with increasing distance between the landfill and wells.


2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Issah Baddianaah ◽  
Gordon N-yelkabo Tuu ◽  
Bernard Nuoleyeng Baatuuwie

The impact of artisanal mining on livelihoods in developing countries is a contentious issue. As a contribution to this subject, the study assessed the implications of artisanal gold mining activities on smallholder agriculture in the Wa East District of Ghana. A descriptive survey design with a mixed methods research approach was used. Primary data were sourced from respondents through interviews, questionnaire administration, and field observation. Five artisanal mining communities were selected based on the intensity of mining activities in them. The study respondents consisted of 290 household heads drawn randomly from 1,050 households. Also, key informants consisting of 5 assembly members and 15 lead artisanal miners were interviewed. The study found artisanal mining to be a dominant livelihood strategy in the district, employing about 76.2% of respondents at various levels. Artisanal mining contribution to household income was higher than food crop farming. Proceeds from mining are used to finance smallholder agriculture. However, the activities of the miners have resulted in the degradation of farmlands. We argued that artisanal mining activities should be aligned with other livelihood options such as agriculture in local communities. The study called for the engagement of local miners and traditional rulers in mineral resource decision-making.


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