Geochemical features of soils from the Mid-Ural ore deposit

Abstract

This paper deals with the contemporary state of soil cover around the Mid-Ural iron ore deposit, focusing on geochemical features. Sample plots were laid based on the technogenic impact in the study area. Soil samples were taken in the zone of the iron ore deposit, in the zones of overburden and gold mining waste dumps influence, and in the rock blasting site. A total of 64 sample plots were laid. Soil samples were sampled incrementally by an envelope method from a depth of 0.00–0.03 m. Soil texture, physicochemical features, and total heavy metal content (V, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb) were defined for the soil samples. As a result, the evaluation of heavy metal soil pollution under the influence of iron ore deposit mining is given. Chemical contamination of soil was assessed by a cumulative chemical contamination index. Geochemical series of elements formed under the influence of iron ore deposit mining, as well as overburden and gold mining are given. Here, geochemical patterns of heavy metal distribution in the soil of iron ore deposit and under the gold mining influence are considered. The analysis of gold mining influence on the elementary composition of soil revealed the anomalous content of Mn and Ni.