Influence of metalliferous minerals on biotic components of topsoil in zinc-lead flotation tailings ponds

Abstract

The mineral components of topsoil in the zinc and lead flotation tailings ponds were analyzed. To examine such mineral components the authors used methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The goal of this study was to pay particular attention to the secondary metalliferous mineral phases formed in rhizosphere zones mainly on plant roots and the influence of autochthonous sulphur bacteria and ferric bacteria on the chemical mechanism of waste components. This study aims both to recognize the (bio)chemical change of flotation tailings which is of great significance for the vegetation of plants, fungi and microorganisms and to properly plan the treatment connected with reclamation and phytoremediation of the area affected by waste disposal.