Background Mining activities in polymetallic sulfide deposits significantly disrupt regional hydrogeochemical equilibrium, generating acid mine drainage (AMD) that causes severe water environmental pollution and threatens regional water resource security. Understanding the formation and evolution mechanisms of mine water quality and establishing low-cost, sustainable risk management models are fundamental to AMD pollution control.

Methods Based on field sampling and literature review, this study investigated the hydrochemical characteristics of AMD across different polymetallic sulfide mining regions in China. It elucidated the driving processes of AMD generation under the combined influences of hydrodynamic, chemical, and biological fields. Furthermore, a hydrogeochemical reverse regulation pathway was proposed in response to three major pollution control challenges.

Results and Discussion  Statistical analysis reveals substantial variations in hydrochemical characteristics of AMD among different mining regions in China. Notably, 78% and 76% of samples exceed the Class III water quality thresholds for Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and sulfate (\mathrmSO_4^2- ), respectively, as stipulated in China's national standard "Quality Standard for Ground Water" (GB/T 14848-2017). Accordingly, a "three-investigations-one-assessment" risk evaluation system is developed, establishing a "targeted risk management" goal focused primarily on environmental regulation for low-cost, sustainable control. Furthermore, an integrated "diversion-blockage-treatment-management" control model is established. This model adheres to the hierarchical principle of "high-level treatment, medium-level control, and low-level prevention," and implements the strategy of "diversion-blockage priority, integrated blockage-treatment, terminal treatment, and comprehensive management" provides a framework for achieving low-cost and sustainable AMD pollution control.