Hydrochemistry, mineralogy and chemical fractionation of mine and processing wastes associated with porphyry copper mines: A case study from the Sarcheshmeh mine, SE Iran

► Mine and processing waste are the main sources of acid mine drainage (AMD). ► Secondary soluble minerals provide important control on the quality of AMD. ► Mineralogical compositions of wastes is the main factor that controls metal fractionation. ► Subsequent use of water is diminished by the presence of corrosive ions like chlorine. ► The environmental management of geochemical processes in the tailings dam is necessary.