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 Halcón mining unit in central Peru was conducted. Direct and indirect methods were employed, including geophysical surveys, sampling through six drill holes reaching depths of up to 9.62 m, textural analysis, mineralogical characterization using 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 and acidic conditions (pH 1.83–4.91) along with significant concentrations of Zn (5.46%), Pb (1.58%), Cu (1.29%), Ag (244 ppm), and Au (3.6 ppm). These economic minerals predominate in fine-grained fractions, which exhibit high degrees of liberation and therefore favor metallurgical recovery. Geostatistical modeling estimated a total tailings tonnage of 87,642 tons, highlighting zones with high localized economic potential, particularly for Zn and Ag. Considering specific recovery scenarios, penalties, operational costs, and metal prices, a preliminary economic benefit of approximately USD 11.36 million was estimated. This pioneering study demonstrates the feasibility of converting environmental liabilities into economic assets through strategic reprocessing initiatives, providing a robust model for the valorization of mine tailings within the framework of the South American circular economy.