Characterization of mining tailings containing sulfides and carbonates applying XRD Rietveld method before and after static tests

Acid mine drainage (AMD) is the process resulting from the oxidation of sulfides exposed to the action of oxygen and water. The characterization of the minerals likely the formation and neutralization of AMD is important for the follow and evaluation of environmental impact. The analysis of X-ray diffraction (XRD) together with the Rietveld method is presented as a promising alternative to favor the identification and quantification of mineral phases. The results of the static test ANC achieved by accounting for carbonates consumed during the test, were correlated with the results obtained by the characterization techniques of X-ray diffraction (XRD) combined with the Rietveld method. The highest concentration of carbonate buffering found in AM2E, which may explain the static test results to be neutralizing for the sample. The major phases identified for both samples were aluminosilicates and quartz, with greater than 70% by weight levels. (author)