Remediation and prevention of low quality drainage from tailings impoundments / by D. Blowes, C. Ptacek, J. Jambor.: En13-5/94-22E-PDF

"Mill tailings are the finely ground residue formed as a byproduct of ore processing. These tailings often contain high concentrations of sulfide minerals that are not economical to extract. It is conventional practice to dispose of sulfide-rich tailings in piles or impoundments in the open environment, where they are allowed to gravity drain and become exposed to atmospheric oxygen. Oxidation of the sulfide minerals contained in the tailings releases elevated concentrations of dissolved H⁺, SO₄, Fe and other metals to the tailings pore water. This pore water is displaced downward and laterally through underlying tailings and nearby aquifers, and eventually is discharged to the surface water flow system. Case studies describing the application of various remediation techniques, both in situ and above ground, for treating low-quality drainage are presented in this handbook chapter. Alternative disposal techniques designed to prevent the formation of low-quality drainage are also summarized"--Management perspective.

Permanent link to this Catalogue record:
publications.gc.ca/pub?id=9.879410&sl=0

• MARC XML format
• MARC HTML format

Request alternate formats