AN ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF TALC PROCESSING: FLOTATION AND MINE WATER QUALITY

Povzetek

Talc processing, particularly flotation and tailings management, presents significant environmental challenges due to waste generation, contamination risks, and potential ecological degradation. This study examines the environmental impacts of talc processing, specifically focusing on flotation and mine water quality. The research assesses the quality of mine waters, evaluates pollutant levels, and investigates the effectiveness of current mitigation strategies. Through a detailed analysis of mine water composition over multiple years, the study identifies fluctuations in key environmental indicators, including dissolved oxygen, sulfane, chemical oxygen demand, and heavy metal concentrations. While most parameters remained within regulatory limits, occasional exceedances were noted, particularly in nitrite nitrogen and non-polar extractable substances. Additionally, the total volume activity of α exceeded limits persistently, reflecting the influence of the geological environment. These findings underscore the need for continuous monitoring, enhanced waste management practices, and regulatory compliance to minimise environmental risks. The study also highlights the role of mine water recycling in reducing resource consumption and mitigating environmental impact. Given the projected 50- to 70-year lifespan of talc extraction in the studied region, sustainable management strategies are imperative. Recommendations include improved tailings containment, stricter pollution control measures, and the development of advanced treatment technologies to ensure long-term environmental sustainability. This research contributes to the broader discourse on responsible mineral resource exploitation and offers insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and environmental agencies working to balance industrial needs with ecological preservation.