Data Integration of Critical Elements from Mine Waste in Mexico, Chile and Australia

Abstract

Due to an extensive history of mining activities common to Mexico, Chile and Australia there is a vast mine waste legacy. Whilst these wastes present ongoing challenges regarding their management, they may represent a source of elements supporting the transition towards a low carbon future. Hence, our study aims to demonstrate the value of establishing a chemical database from publicly available tailings data collated from the three countries to assess their potential as a secondary resource of elements classified as critical or with high economic relevance. Overall, 2976 data samples were identified, analysed and georeferenced from 159, 642 and 7 Mexican, Chilean and Australian deposits, respectively. Data analysis shows that Mexico has significant potential for Bi, Sb, W, In, Zn and Mo with outstanding values in Sonora State, while Chile has significant potential for Bi, Sb, W and Mo, mostly from northern to central regions and Zn to the south. Whilst data from Australia are still being compiled, the potential for Co was recognised. The research exposes that available information is insufficient and highlights the need for an international report or assessment code for mine waste that encourages resource recovery from these resources and circular economy practices.

Keywords

• data analysis
• mine waste
• tailings
• critical elements
• circular economy