Removal of heavy metals using a wetland batch system with carrizo (phragmites australis (cav.) trin. ex steud.): A laboratory assessment

One of the greatest environmental issues related to the development of the mining activity is the generation of Acid Mine Drainage (AMD). This effluent generated by active and abandoned mines in Peru produces multiple discussions about the role of the industry for a sustainable development. Many methods have been developed for AMD treatment, being wetlands a good option for heavy metal removal. In this sense, removal of heavy metal by using laboratory constructed wetlands with phragmites australis (cav.) trin. ex steud. was studied. During a 9-day period the variation of different physicochemical parameters and heavy metals concentrations was recorded. The pH decreased to a constant value of 8.24 after the sixth day. The electrical conductivity presented a slight variation from 1 to 1.33 μS cm⁻¹ on the ninth day. Moreover, fluctuating values of Dissolved Oxygen and Turbidity were observed. A reduction between 69% and 93% of ammonia nitrogen (NH₃-N) was registered. Cu concentration was reduced in 68% and 87%; Zn concentrations dropped in 53% and 95%; and Pb was reduced in 20% and 55%. It was concluded that phragmites australis (cav.) trin. ex steud. can be an alternative in the treatment of the contaminants produced by AMD.