Research Article
Acid-generating Potential of Mine Wastes from the Perkoa Polymetallic Zinc Deposit in Central-western Burkina Faso
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
290-302
Received:
6 September 2025
Accepted:
22 September 2025
Published:
12 November 2025
Abstract: Perkoa polymetallic zinc deposit, formed in a context of massive volcanogenic sulphides, generated large volumes of potentially reactive wastes during its exploitation due to the predominance of sulphide minerals. The aim of this study is to assess the acid-generating potential, i.e. the potential to generate acid mine drainage (AMD), of these wastes. To this end, four representative samples of these wastes were collected in a targeted manner at the Perkoa mine site, including waste rock, mine tailings and crusher waste. The analyses focused on determining the mineralogy by X-ray diffraction, the physico-chemical parameters (pH, electrical conductivity), the sulphur and carbon contents, and the acidity and neutralization potentials. The results reveal, with the exception of waste rock, acidic pH values (< 5), high electrical conductivity (> 500 µS/cm) and high sulphide content, mainly pyrite, sphalerite and pyrrhotite. The acid potential (AP) shows high values between 5 and 1000 kg CaCO3/t. On the other hand, the neutralization potential (NP) is low, with NPR (NP/AP) ratios below 1 and negative NNP (NP-AP) values in the range of -1300 to -5 kg CaCO3/t. These results show that these wastes would not be able to neutralise any acid that might be generated as a result of their oxidation. The most reactive acidogenic minerals are pyrite and pyrrhotite. Acid-producing mineral species are represented by silicates such as actinolite, microcline and chlorite. In summary, these results confirm a high risk of AMD development from mine wastes.
Abstract: Perkoa polymetallic zinc deposit, formed in a context of massive volcanogenic sulphides, generated large volumes of potentially reactive wastes during its exploitation due to the predominance of sulphide minerals. The aim of this study is to assess the acid-generating potential, i.e. the potential to generate acid mine drainage (AMD), of these wast...
Show More
Research Article
Contribution of Remote Sensing to the Evolution of Ivorian Coastal Lacustrine Environments: The Case of Lake Hebe (Southeastern Côte D’Ivoire)
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
303-313
Received:
16 October 2025
Accepted:
5 November 2025
Published:
8 December 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijema.20251306.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: The Ivorian coastal zone hosts a wide variety of hydrosystems such as lagoons, estuar ies, rivers, and lakes, which play essential ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic roles. Lakes, in particular, serve as vital freshwater reserves for surrounding populations and are also used for fishing, irrigation, tourism, and recreation. However, these fragile ecosystems are increasingly subjected to both natural and human-induced pressures, including uncontrolled urbanization, intensive agriculture, sand extraction, and the proliferation of aquatic vegetation. These factors contribute to increased sedimentation, a reduction in water depth, and the progressive degradation of water quality. This study focuses on Lake Hebe, located in southeastern Côte d’Ivoire, covering an area of approximately 274.53 hectares. Using remote sensing data and bathymetric analyses, it examines the spatio-temporal dynamics of the lake over a thirty-year period (1988–2018). Satellite imagery was used to monitor variations in surface area and changes in land use around the lake, while bathymetric surveys highlighted its morphology and sedimentation processes. The results reveal significant hydromorphological changes caused by both natural and anthropogenic pressures. Finally, decision-support tools and sustainable management strategies are proposed to preserve the ecological integrity of Lake Hebe and other lacustrine environments in Côte d’Ivoire.
Abstract: The Ivorian coastal zone hosts a wide variety of hydrosystems such as lagoons, estuar ies, rivers, and lakes, which play essential ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic roles. Lakes, in particular, serve as vital freshwater reserves for surrounding populations and are also used for fishing, irrigation, tourism, and recreation. However, these...
Show More
,
Adama Yameogo
