Geochemistry, mineralogy and environmental impact of precipitated efflorescent salts at the Kabwe Cu-Co chemical leaching plant in Zambia

Abstract

Precipitated Cu-Co salts at the Kabwe site have been investigated. Less hydrated salts were found in the field compared to laboratory precipitation experiment.

Dissolution experiment revealed fast drop in pH and fast increase of mineralization, which may have a serious impact on environment

Keywords

• Geochemistry
• mineralogy
• environmental impact
• precipitated Cu-Co salts
• Kabwe
• Zambia