Hydrogeochemical characteristics of pit lakes formed in abandoned ornamental rocks quarries of Campo Belo Metamorphic Complex, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to determine the major environmental impacts and, especially, to evaluate the geochemical characteristics of water of the lakes formed in abandoned quarries of ornamental rock of the Campo Belo Metamorphic Complex.

Design/methodology/approach

To do so, 12 quarries were chosen to be studied. They were mapped in a detail scale and their rocks were described and sampled for petrography analysis. Whenever present, the lakes were evaluated too. In situ measurements included pH, Eh, conductivity, resistivity, total dissolved solids and temperature. Water samples were collected to determine alkalinity, sulfates, chlorates, turbidity, suspended sediments and the concentrations of major and trace elements using the ICP‐OES.

Findings

Abandoned open‐pit mining operations have resulted in the creation of numerous pit lakes. About 90 per cent of the quarries visited and studied were abandoned or interdicted by environmental organs, what will probably lead to its subsequent abandonment. The quarries Borges and Gêmeos were two quarries of the abandoned quarries in the region, which has a lake formed in its trench. Gêmeos and Borges pit lakes analytical data shows clear correlation between the chemical compositions of the solute and the geological characteristics of the quarries. In spite of the differences found, the results showed a relatively quality water according to Brazilian legislation control values.

Originality/value

This was the first study done of pit lakes formed in abandoned ornamental rock quarries of Campo Belo Metamorphic Complex/Minas Gerais – Brazil. This research provides a better understanding of the gneisses pit lakes hydrogeochemistry, a subject neglected in scientific literature.

Citation

Silva Fabri, É., Antônio Carneiro, M. and Garcia Praça Leite, M. (2013), "Hydrogeochemical characteristics of pit lakes formed in abandoned ornamental rocks quarries of Campo Belo Metamorphic Complex, Minas Gerais, Brazil", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 82-93. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777831311291168