Mineralogy anthropogenically-induced alteration processes. Secondary minerals of the uranium ore processing plant Dresden-Coschuetz/Gittersee (uranium mill 95 of SDAG Wismut)

The uranium ore processing plant Dresden-Coschuetz/Gittersee (SDAG Wismut) was in operation from 1950 to 1962. Approximately 3.8 million tons of uranium ore were processed. Around 7000 tons of uranium were extracted from the ore by acidic and alkaline ore leaching. The formation of secondary minerals (by the action of process water and seepage water) in building material, tailings dumps as well as in quaternary and cretaceous sediments under the buildings and tailings dumps was investigated. The secondary minerals are an important basis for evaluating of release of radionuclides and heavy metals by precipitation water and their migration in the sediments.