Evaluation of Thallium Contamination from an Open-Mined Yunfu Thallium-Bearing Pyrite Deposit, China

Yunfu pyrite deposit bearing thallium (Tl) with proven reserves of three million tons´ Tl in Guangdong Province, China has been extensively exploited since 1970. This study investigated contamination levels of Tl and other trace metals in ecosystem such as soils, surface waters, vegetables and crops in the area near the deposit. Results show that Tl in these samples nearby has greatly enriched and their accumulation levels of Tl generally present negative dependence on the distance between the sampling site and the pyrite deposit. The overall high enrichment of Tl in the ecosystem could trigger chronic poisoning and endanger the health of the local people.