Utilization and Valorization of Mining Tailings Through a Comprehensive Approach in Central Peru

To determine the reprocessing potential of mining liabilities, a comprehensive evaluation of the tailings deposit at the former Halcon mining unit in central Peru was conducted. Direct and indirect methods were employed, including geophysical surveys, sampling through six drill holes up to 9.62 meters deep, textural analysis, mineralogical characterization (optical microscopy, SEM, XRD, and reflectance spectroscopy), and ICP-MS chemical analysis, complemented by geostatistical modeling for resource estimation. Geochemical and mineralogical results reveal highly oxidizing, acidic conditions (pH 1.83–4.91) and significant concentrations of Zn (5.46%), Pb (1.58%), Cu (1.67%), Ag (244 ppm), and Au (3.6 ppm). These economic minerals predominate in fine-grained fractions with high degrees of liberation, favoring metallurgical recovery. Geostatistical modeling estimated a total tailings tonnage of 87,642 tons, highlighting zones of high localized economic potential, particularly for Zn and Ag. Considering specific recovery scenarios, penalties, operational costs, and metal prices, a net financial benefit of approximately US$11.35 million was projected. This pioneering study demonstrates the feasibility of converting environmental liabilities into economic assets through strategic reprocessing initiatives, contributing a robust model for mine tailings valorization within the South American circular economy framework.