1
|
Sapkota B, Verbuyst B, Bain J, Ptacek C, Blowes D, Al T. Geochemical and mineralogical investigation of cemented crusts in the tailings cover at Long Lake Gold Mine, Sudbury, Canada. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 451:131192. [PMID: 36921421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In mine tailings, precipitation of secondary minerals may cement the tailings material and form cemented crusts or hardpans. Hardpans typically form beneath the surface of reactive tailings. However, at the former Long Lake Gold Mine near Sudbury, Ontario, cemented crusts formed in a clean sand cover above the tailings. We applied mineralogical and geochemical techniques to investigate the formation of these cemented crusts. Representative samples were collected from the sand cover and vertical cores from the underlying tailings. Elevated concentrations of arsenic (As), iron (Fe), and sulfur (S) in the sand cover indicate the upward transport of sulfide-mineral oxidation products. The shallow porewater of the tailings is acidic (pH 4 - 6) and contains elevated concentrations of As (up to 346 mg/L), Fe (up to 1844 mg/L), and SO4 (up to 12,000 mg/L). Mineralogical observations indicate that primary sulfide minerals in the near-surface tailings display moderate to strong oxidation, and secondary Fe-arsenate and jarosite minerals are formed both in the near-surface tailings and the sand cover. Upward migration of sulfide-mineral oxidation products leads to the formation of cemented crusts, which with continuing erosion, represent a long-term source of pollution to the surrounding environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Birendra Sapkota
- University of Ottawa, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 150 Louis-Pasteur Private, K1N 6N5 Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Brent Verbuyst
- University of Waterloo, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 200 University Avenue West, N2L 3G1 Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Jeff Bain
- University of Waterloo, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 200 University Avenue West, N2L 3G1 Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Carol Ptacek
- University of Waterloo, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 200 University Avenue West, N2L 3G1 Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - David Blowes
- University of Waterloo, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 200 University Avenue West, N2L 3G1 Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Tom Al
- University of Ottawa, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, 150 Louis-Pasteur Private, K1N 6N5 Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Charuseiam Y, Chotpantarat S, Sutthirat C. Acid mine drainage potential of waste rocks in a gold mine (Thailand): application of a weathering cell test and multivariate statistical analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2022; 44:1049-1079. [PMID: 34152478 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-00976-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In the process of gold mining, large amounts of broken waste rocks are produced and left at the surface under atmospheric conditions, which may generate acid mine drainage (AMD). This study aimed to predict the AMD generation potential and determine the concentrations of potentially toxic metals at three dump sites for a gold mine in Thailand. The AMD generation potentials of waste rock samples collected from the oxide, transition and sulfide dump sites was determined using the weathering cell test. The kinetic test had a 7-d cycle and was run for ~ 21 cycles; the effluent pH, conductivity, redox potential and levels of sulfate, and major and trace metals (i.e., As, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn) present in each cycle were measured. Some samples generated significant amounts of AMD, especially the massive sulfide samples from the transition and sulfide dump sites. The effluent water pH in the oxide and sulfide dump sites was neutral to slightly alkaline (pH ~ 6-9), while it was acidic to neutral (pH ~ 3-7) in the transition dump site. The transition dump site samples generated significantly higher acidity and sulfate levels than those from the oxide and sulfide dump sites. Furthermore, some waste rock samples, including the massive sulfide from the transition dump site, released relatively high amounts of heavy metals; in addition, sulfate reached levels (9.48 mg kg-1 of waste rock) high enough to pose a risk to ecosystems. The long-term acid generation suggested that some waste rock samples from sulfide dump site and transition dump site will continue to generate acid for long periods. Based on data from the weathering cell test and multivariate statistical analysis, the transition dump site potentially generates a lower pH leachate than other waste rock dumps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaowaluck Charuseiam
- International Postgraduate Programs in Environmental Management, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Environmental and Substance Management (HSM), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Srilert Chotpantarat
- Department of Geology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
- Research Unit of Green Mining (GMM), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Chakkaphan Sutthirat
- Department of Geology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Merchichi A, Hamou MO, Edahbi M, Bobocioiu E, Neculita CM, Benzaazoua M. Passive treatment of acid mine drainage from the Sidi-Kamber mine wastes (Mediterranean coastline, Algeria) using neighbouring phosphate material from the Djebel Onk mine. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 807:151002. [PMID: 34656571 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Passive abiotic treatment of acid mine drainage (AMD) was investigated using phosphate mining residuals (raw low-grade phosphate ore, phosphatic limestone wastes, and phosphate mine tailings) from the Djebel Onk mine, Algeria. Laboratory batch tests were performed using the main expected lithologies of phosphate materials in contact with synthetic AMD, which had a low pH (3.08) and contained high concentrations of Fe (600 mg/L), Mn (40 mg/L), Mg (10 mg/L), Zn (20 mg/L), Cu (25 mg/L), As (50 mg/L), and sulfate (3700 mg/L). Phosphate materials were used as an oxic limestone drain to evaluate the increase in the pH of the AMD and metal removal by sorption and precipitation mechanisms. The results showed that all phosphatic lithologies were efficient in the passive treatment of AMD. The pH rapidly increased from 3.08 to 8.47 during water-rock interactions. The neutralization potential comparisons also showed that the phosphatic limestone wastes neutralized more acid than other lithologies. In addition, metals were efficiently removed (95.5% to 99.9%) by all materials. The results of batch sorption tests showed that the concentrations of metals in residual leachates did not exceed the Algerian criteria for industrial liquid effluents. Overall, these findings indicate that passive systems using phosphatic materials from the Djebel Onk mine can be effective for AMD treatment. The use of these mine wastes for passive treatment of AMD would allow the development of integrated management strategies for these residual materials in the context of sustainable development of phosphate mining.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amira Merchichi
- Ecole Nationale Polytechnique d'Alger, Laboratoire de Génie Minier, 10 Rue des Frères OUDEK, El-Harrach 16200, Alger, Algeria
| | - Malek Ould Hamou
- Ecole Nationale Polytechnique d'Alger, Laboratoire de Génie Minier, 10 Rue des Frères OUDEK, El-Harrach 16200, Alger, Algeria
| | - Mohamed Edahbi
- Université du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT), Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), 445 boul de l'Universite, Rouyn-Noranda J9X 5E4, QC, Canada; Higher School of Technology (ESTFBS), Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal, Morocco
| | - Ema Bobocioiu
- Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon (ENS), Université Lyon1, CNRS, UMR 5276 LGL-TPE, Lyon, France
| | - Carmen M Neculita
- Université du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT), Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), 445 boul de l'Universite, Rouyn-Noranda J9X 5E4, QC, Canada.
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Université du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT), Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), 445 boul de l'Universite, Rouyn-Noranda J9X 5E4, QC, Canada; Mining Environment and Circular Economy, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Lot 660, Hay Moulay Rachid, Ben Guerir 43150, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Incorporating Kinetic Modeling in the Development Stages of Hard Rock Mine Projects. MINERALS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/min11121306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Weathering cell test, designed specifically to overcome material-limited constraints, yields prompt and efficient experimental assessment during the development stages of mining projects. However, it has barely benefited from geochemical modeling tools despite their ease of use. Accordingly, this paper aims to strengthen the upstream geochemical assessment via parametric analysis that simulates the effect of various mineral assemblages on leachate quality recovered from weathering cells. The main objective is to simulate the pH in presence of silicate neutralizing minerals and Mn release from carbonates based upon minimal characterization data. The public domain code PHREEQC was used for geochemical kinetic modeling of four weathering cells. The kinetic model utilized a water film concept to simulate diffusion of chemical elements from mineral surfaces to the pore water. The obtained results suggest that the presence of the silicate neutralizing minerals slightly affects the Mn release from carbonates. Furthermore, plagioclases could supply a significant neutralization potential when they predominate the mineral assemblage. Finally, coupling weathering cell test and parametric analyses illuminate the pH evolution for various mineral proportion scenarios.
Collapse
|
5
|
Elghali A, Benzaazoua M, Bouzahzah H, Abdelmoula M, Dynes JJ, Jamieson HE. Role of secondary minerals in the acid generating potential of weathered mine tailings: Crystal-chemistry characterization and closed mine site management involvement. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 784:147105. [PMID: 33905938 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mine tailings exposed to water and oxygen generate acid mine drainage (AMD) when the neutralizing minerals are insufficient to buffer the acid produced by sulfide oxidation. Mineral reactivity, such as sulfide oxidation and carbonate dissolution, leads to several changes within mine tailings in terms of their physical, mineralogical, and geochemical properties, which may lead to the release of metal(oid)s (e.g., As, Cu, Zn, Fe, S) into the environment. Fresh and oxidized tailings were sampled at two vertical profiles in a tailings storage facility (TSF). The TSF contains tailings from gold ore processing at a mine that has been closed for more than 25 years. Oxidized tailings have formed by in-situ oxidation of fresh tailings over more than 20 years. The collected samples were analyzed for: i) chemical composition by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and total S/C; and ii) mineralogical composition by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Mineral Liberation Analyzer (MLA), Mossbauer spectroscopy, and Fe L-edge X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES). Mineralogically, the fresh tailings included more than 22 wt% carbonates and more than 10 wt% sulfides. In contrast, the oxidized tailings were composed mainly of secondary minerals such as iron oxy-hydroxides and gypsum. Geochemically, the fresh tailings exhibited a circumneutral behavior during weathering cell experiments and contaminants such as As were negligibly released (<0.3 mg/L). The latter is explained by formation of secondary iron oxy-hydroxides, which are known for the capacity to uptake several contaminants from the leachate. Long term oxidation of fresh tailings will lead to highly oxidized tailings similar to those collected in situ. The oxidized tailings exhibited an acidic behavior despite sulfide depletion due to latent acidity. The geochemical behavior was strongly controlled by the reactivity of secondary minerals (e.g., dissolution of gypsum and iron oxy-hydroxides). Quantitatively, the oxidized tailings released 163 mg/kg Fe, around 12,000 mg/kg S, and around 6 mg/kg Zn.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdellatif Elghali
- Geology and Sustainable Mining Department, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Lot 660, Hay Moulay Rachid, Ben Guerir 43150, Morocco; Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue 445, boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec J9X 5E4, Canada
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue 445, boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec J9X 5E4, Canada; Mining Environment and Circular Economy, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Lot 660, Hay Moulay Rachid, 43150, Ben Guerir, Morocco.
| | - Hassan Bouzahzah
- Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue 445, boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec J9X 5E4, Canada; Université de Liège, Génie minéral, matériaux et environnement, Allée de la découverte, 13/A. Bât. B52/3 Sart-Tilman, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Mustapha Abdelmoula
- Laboratoire de Chimie Physique et Microbiologie pour les Matériaux et l'Environnement, LCPME UMR 7564 CNRS-Université de Lorraine, 405 rue de Vandoeuvre, 54600 Villers-lès-Nancy, France
| | - James J Dynes
- Canadian Light Source, 44 Innovation Boulevard, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2V3, Canada
| | - Heather E Jamieson
- Department of Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Mining produces significant amounts of solid mineral waste. Mine waste storage facilities are often challenging to manage and may cause environmental problems. Mining waste is often linked to contaminated mine drainage, including acidic waters with more or less elevated concentrations of trace metals such as lead. This work presents a study on the mobilization of lead from waste from two typical mining sites: Zeida and Mibladen, two now-closed former Pb–Zn mines in the Moulouya region of Morocco. Our research investigates the mobilization potential of Pb from the waste of these mines. The study involved acid–base neutralization capacity tests (ANC–BNC) combined with geochemical modeling. Experimental data allowed for the quantification of the buffering capacity of the samples and the mobilization rates of lead as a function of pH. The geochemical model was fitted to experimental results with thermodynamic considerations. The geochemical model allowed for the identification of the mineral phases involved in providing the buffering capacity of carbonated mining waste (Mibladen) and the meager buffering capacity of the silicate mining waste (Zeida). These cases are representative of contaminated neutral drainage (CND) and acid mine drainage (AMD), respectively. The results highlight the consistency between the ANC–BNC experimental data and the associated modeling in terms of geochemical behavior, validating the approach and identifying the main mechanisms involved. The modeling approach identifies the dissolution of the main solid phases, which impact the pH and the speciation of lead as a function of the pH. This innovative approach, combining ANC–BNC experiments and geochemical modeling, allowed for the accurate identification of mineral phases and surface complexation phenomena, which control the release of lead and its speciation in drainage solutions, as well as within solid phases, as a function of pH.
Collapse
|
7
|
Laboratory Study on the Effectiveness of Limestone and Cementitious Industrial Products for Acid Mine Drainage Remediation. MINERALS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/min11040413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Acid mine tailings may affect several environmental matrices. Here, we aimed to stabilize acid-generated mine tailings using several alkaline and cementitious amendments, which were tested in columns for 361 days. The alkaline amendments consisted of 10 and 20 wt.% limestone, while the cementitious amendments consisted of different binders at a total dosage of 5 wt.% binder. The different formulations for the cementitious amendments were: 50% Kruger fly ash and 50% class F fly ash; 20% ordinary Portland cement, 40% Kruger fly ash, and 40% class F fly ash; 80% ordinary Portland cement and 20% Kruger fly ash; and 20% ordinary Portland cement, 40% Kruger fly ash, and 40% fly ash. Kinetic testing on the amendment formulations showed that the pH values increased from <2.5 to circumneutral values (~7.5). The mobility of various chemical species was greatly reduced. Cumulative Fe released from the unamended tailings was ~342.5 mg/kg, and was <22 mg/kg for the amended tailings. The main mechanisms responsible for metal(loid) immobilization were the precipitation of secondary phases, such as Fe-oxyhydroxides, physical trapping, and tailing impermeabilization.
Collapse
|
8
|
Evaluation of the Anthropogenic Metal Pollution at Osisko Lake: Sediments Characterization for Reclamation Purposes. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11052298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The anthropogenic pollution of lake ecosystems by human activities (e.g., mining industries) is recognized as a serious issue. The Osisko urban lake located in Rouyn-Noranda (Quebec, Canada) was used partially as a waste disposal facility for many decades, causing a heavy pollution. The main undertakings of this study are (i) assessing the mineralogical and geochemical properties of lake Osisko sediments, and (ii) studying the pollution that occurred within lake water due to the sediments’ reactivity. Water and sediments across the lake were collected in different sensitive locations. Within the sediment samples, two parts were distinguished: a small layer of black vase over grey sediments. The black vase resembled organic matter while the gray sediment seemed close to clean lake sediments. The collected samples were characterized for their physical (particle size distribution, specific gravity and specific surface area), chemical (minor and major elements as well as total sulfur and carbon) and mineralogical (X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope) properties. Additionally, the reactivity of sediments was studied using weathering cells to quantify chemical species leaching and their releasing rates. The results showed that the vase was the only contaminated part with high concentrations of sulfur and metals such as copper, zinc and iron. Geochemical data showed that the composite sample and the vase potentially cause contaminated acid drainage if they are exposed to atmospheric conditions. Indeed, the pH values of the leachates from both samples were between 4 and 6, while those corresponding to sediments remained around circumneutral values. Quantitatively, the contaminant release from the tested samples was variable. Indeed, the Fe cumulative concentrations were around 200, 80 and 20 mg/kg for the vase, composite and sediment samples, respectively. Similarly, the Zn cumulative concentrations were around 4500, 4200, and below the detection limit for vase, composite and sediment samples, respectively. The same tendency was observed for Cu, S, and Fe. Thus, sediments within Osisko lake present a risk for water contamination if they are resuspended or dredged out of the lake. Consequently, they should be stabilized before their disposal. The samples’ high Cu contents also offer the possibility of their reprocessing.
Collapse
|
9
|
ANC–BNC Titrations and Geochemical Modeling for Characterizing Calcareous and Siliceous Mining Waste. MINERALS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/min11030257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pyrite and calcite are mineral phases that play a major role in acid and neutral mine drainage processes. However, the prediction of acid mine drainage (AMD) or contaminated neutral drainage (CND) requires knowledge of the mineral composition of mining waste and the related potential for element release. This paper studies the combination of acid–base neutralizing capacity (ANC–BNC) with geochemical modeling for the characterization of mining waste and prediction of AMD and CND. The proposed approach is validated with three synthetic mineral assemblages: (1) siliceous sand with pyrite only, representing mining waste responsible for AMD, (2) siliceous sand with calcite and pyrite, representing calcareous waste responsible for CND, and (3) siliceous sand with calcite only, simulating calcareous matrices without any pyrite. The geochemical modeling approach using PHREEQC software was used to model pH evolution and main element release as a function of the added amount of acid or base over the entire pH range: 1 < pH < 13. For calcareous matrices (sand with calcite), the results are typical of a carbonated environment, the geochemistry of which is well known. For matrices containing pyrite, the results identify different pH values favoring the dissolution of pyrite: pH = 2 in a pyrite-only environment and pH = 6 where pyrite coexists with calcite. The neutral conditions can be explained by the buffering capacity of calcite, which allows iron oxyhydroxide precipitation. Major element release is then related to the dissolution and precipitation of the mineral assemblages. The geochemical modeling allows the prediction of element speciation in the solid and liquid phases. Our findings clearly prove the potential of combined ANC–BNC experiments along with geochemical modeling for the characterization of mining waste and the assessment of risk of AMD and CND.
Collapse
|
10
|
Hydrogeochemical Behavior of Reclaimed Highly Reactive Tailings, Part 1: Characterization of Reclamation Materials. MINERALS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/min10070596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The production of solid mine wastes is an integral part of the extraction and metallurgical processing of ores. The reclamation of highly reactive mine waste, with low neutralizing potential, is still a significant challenge for the mining industry, particularly when natural soils are not available close to the site. Some solid mine wastes present interesting hydro-geotechnical properties which can be taken advantage of, particularly for being used in reclamation covers to control acid mine drainage. The main objective of this research was to evaluate the use of mining materials (i.e., tailings and waste rock) in a cover with capillary barrier effects (CCBE) to prevent acid mine drainage (AMD) from highly reactive tailings. The first part of the project reproduced in this article involves context and laboratory validation of mining materials as suitable for a CCBE, while the companion paper reports laboratory and field results of cover systems made with mining materials. The main conclusions of the Part 1 of this study were that the materials studied (low sulfide tailings and waste rocks) had the appropriate geochemical and hydrogeological properties for use as cover materials in a CCBE. Results also showed that the cover mining materials are not acid-generating and that the LaRonde tailings are highly reactive with pH close to 2, with high concentrations of metals and sulfates.
Collapse
|
11
|
Jouini M, Neculita CM, Genty T, Benzaazoua M. Environmental behavior of metal-rich residues from the passive treatment of acid mine drainage. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 712:136541. [PMID: 32050384 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.136541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In closed or abandoned mine sites, passive systems are often used for acid mine drainage (AMD) treatment. They generate metal-rich residues with variable chemical stability, which is rarely reported. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the potential mobility of contaminants (metals and sulfates) from AMD post-treatment residues to better anticipate their fate and enable their proper management. Sampling of a field tri-step passive system, consisting of two passive biochemical reactors (PBR1 and PBR2), separated by a wood ash reactor (WA), implemented in the reclaimed Lorraine mine site, QC, Canada, was carried out. Samples were collected from the inlet (In) and the outlet (Out) of each treatment unit. Physicochemical and mineralogical characterization was performed. The potential mobility of the metals was then assessed via static and kinetic leaching tests. Results showed that all residues had high metal contents (e.g. Fe content >29 g/kg in PBR1-In, > 76 g/kg in WA-In and > 80 g/kg in PBR2-Out). A high residual neutralizing potential was also found in the WA residues (inorganic carbon 6.5%). Native and organic sulfur were found in the PBR2 residues, while Fe-oxyhydroxide (hematite, goethite and magnetite), carbonate and sulfate minerals were present in all residues. According to USEPA regulations, all residues were considered non-hazardous, but Quebec's provincial regulation relative on mining effluents classifies these residues as leachable for some metals, such as Fe, Al, Ni, Zn and Mn. A potential generation of contaminated neutral mine drainage (Al, Ni, Mn and Zn concentrations exceeding criteria) could occur from PBR1 (In & Out) and WA (In & Out) residues. Moreover, the PBR2 residues (In & Out) regenerated AMD rich in Fe and sulfates, especially for PBR2-Out (1 g/L Fe and 6 g/L sulfates). Therefore, all residues were proven to require stabilization prior to their landfill (co-)disposal with municipal waste.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marouen Jouini
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Canada
| | - Carmen Mihaela Neculita
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Canada.
| | - Thomas Genty
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Canada
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Environmental Impact of Mine Exploitation: An Early Predictive Methodology Based on Ore Mineralogy and Contaminant Speciation. MINERALS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/min9070397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mining wastes containing sulfide minerals can generate contaminated waters as acid mine drainage (AMD) and contaminated neutral drainage (CND). This occurs when such minerals are exposed to oxygen and water. Nowadays, mineralogical work—when it is done—is independently and differentially done according to the needs of the exploration, geotechnics, metallurgy or environment department, at different stages in the mine development process. Moreover, environmental impact assessments (EIA) are realized late in the process and rarely contain pertinent mineralogical characterization on ores and wastes, depending on countries’ regulations. Contaminant-bearing minerals are often not detected at an early stage of the mine life cycle and environmental problems could occur during production or once the mine has come to the end of its productive life. This work puts forward a more reliable methodology, based on mineralogical characterization of the ore at the exploration stages, which, in turn, will be useful for each stage of the mining project and limit the unforeseen environmental or metallurgical issues. Three polymetallic sulfide ores and seven gold deposits from various origins around the world were studied. Crushed ore samples representing feed ore of advanced projects and of production mines were used to validate the methodology with realistic cases. The mineralogical methodology consisted in chemical assays and XRD, optical microscopy, SEM and EPMA were done. Five of the ores were also submitted to geochemical tests to compare mineralogical prediction results with their experimental leaching behavior. Major, minor, and trace minerals were identified, quantified, and the bearing minerals were examined for the polluting elements (and valuables). The main conclusion is that detailed mineralogical work can avert redundant work, save time and money, and allow detection of the problems at the beginning of the mine development phase, improving waste management and closure planning.
Collapse
|
13
|
In Situ Effectiveness of Alkaline and Cementitious Amendments to Stabilize Oxidized Acid-Generating Tailings. MINERALS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/min9050314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of alkaline and cementitious additives in the in situ stabilization of localized acid-generating tailings from a closed gold mine in Abitibi–Témiscamingue, Québec (Eagle/Telbel mine site). Five field cells (including one control) were constructed and equipped with mechanisms for collecting vertical water infiltration and surface runoff. The five cells included: (C1) Control cell; (C2) 5 wt % limestone amendment; (C3) 10 wt % limestone amendment; (C4) 5 wt % half ordinary Portland cement and half fly ash amendment; and (C5) 5 wt % ordinary Portland cement amendment. The control cell showed an acidic behavior (pH < 4.5) with variable concentrations of Fe, Al, Zn, and Cu. The amendments were used to neutralize the acidic leachates and decrease dissolved metal concentrations. Leachates from surface runoff samples of amended cells were less loaded with metals compared to samples of vertical infiltration. All amendment formulations increased the pH of the leachates from approximately 4 to circumneutral values. Furthermore, metal and metalloid concentrations were greatly limited, except for Cr and As for the carbonate-based amendments. Metal(-oid) stabilization was successfully achieved using the different amendment formulations, with the exception of C2, which still released As.
Collapse
|
14
|
Environmental characterization of mine waste at the Pb–Zn Sidi Kamber abandoned mine (NE Algeria). RENDICONTI LINCEI. SCIENZE FISICHE E NATURALI 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12210-019-00806-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
15
|
Spatial Mapping of Acidity and Geochemical Properties of Oxidized Tailings within the Former Eagle/Telbel Mine Site. MINERALS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/min9030180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
At some orphaned and abandoned mine sites, acid mine drainage can represent a complex challenge due to the advanced tailings’ oxidation state as well as the combination of other factors. At the field scale, several parameters control sulfides’ oxidation rates and, therefore, the acidity generation. The objective of this paper is to map the acidity and geochemical properties of oxidized tailings within a closed tailings storage facility. Based on systematic sampling, various geochemical parameters were measured within the oxidized Joutel tailings, including the: Neutralization potential, acid-generating potential, net neutralization potential, neutralization potential ratio, paste pH, thickness of oxidized, hardpan, and transition zones. The different parameters were integrated in geographical information system (GISs) databases to quantify the spatial variability of the acidity and geochemical properties of oxidized tailings. The oxidized tailings were characterized by low sulfide (mainly as pyrite) and carbonate (mainly as siderite/ankerite) contents compared to unweathered tailings. Acidic zones, identified based on paste pH, were located in the eastern portion of the southern zone and at the northern tip of the northern zone.
Collapse
|
16
|
Elghali A, Benzaazoua M, Bussière B, Kennedy C, Parwani R, Graham S. The role of hardpan formation on the reactivity of sulfidic mine tailings: A case study at Joutel mine (Québec). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 654:118-128. [PMID: 30439688 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.11.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The former Eagle and Telbel mine site (hereafter referred to as Joutel mine), located near the town of Joutel in the Nord-du-Québec (Canada) houses a tailings storage facility (TSF) that has been inactive since 1996. Fresh, unweathered tailings (beneath 10-30 cm of oxidized horizon) are characterized by an average sulfide content of 6-7 wt% and an average Fe-Mn-carbonate content of 20-40 wt%. The oxidation of Joutel's tailings under atmospheric conditions resulted in the precipitation of secondary phases such as ferric oxyhydroxides and gypsum. Accumulation of these secondary phases throughout the TSF caused cementation and agglomeration of grains, which decreased the porosity of the material in a horizon below the surface. This horizon, which is referred to as hardpan, is frequently encountered within fine, reactive tailings. Characterizations showed that hardpans have a highly compact texture. The formation of hardpans limits vertical water infiltration and oxygen diffusion and these layers greatly affect the global geochemical behavior of underlying tailings in the Joutel TSF by protecting the unweathered material from oxidation. As a result, the water quality of the TSF is largely controlled by the reactivity of the upper oxidized tailings horizon. Joutel's oxidized tailings showed an acidic behavior early during laboratory kinetic leaching tests despite the near absence of sulfides and neutralizing minerals. However, when unweathered tailings were added under oxidized tailings, the water became neutral and metal leaching rates were reduced. After over a year of laboratory leaching tests, hardpans formed within the columns and the natural phenomenon was reproduced under laboratory conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Elghali
- Université du Québec en Abitibi Témiscamingue, 445 Boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec J9X 5E4, Canada.
| | - M Benzaazoua
- Université du Québec en Abitibi Témiscamingue, 445 Boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec J9X 5E4, Canada
| | - B Bussière
- Université du Québec en Abitibi Témiscamingue, 445 Boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec J9X 5E4, Canada
| | - C Kennedy
- Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd., 145 King St. East, Suite 400, Toronto, ON M5C 2Y7, Canada
| | - R Parwani
- Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC, One Zeiss Drive, Thornwood, NY 10594, United States of America
| | - S Graham
- Carl Zeiss Microscopy Limited, 509 Coldhams Lane, Cambridge CB1 3JS, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Couvidat J, Chatain V, Bouzahzah H, Benzaazoua M. Characterization of how contaminants arise in a dredged marine sediment and analysis of the effect of natural weathering. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 624:323-332. [PMID: 29258033 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.12.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Millions of tons of contaminated sediments are dredged each year from the main harbors in France. When removed from water, these sediments are very reactive, therefore their geochemical behavior must be understood in order to avoid dispersion of contaminated lixiviates in the surrounding soils. In this objective, it is necessary to evaluate the principal physicochemical parameters, and also achieve advanced mineralogical characterization. These studied sediments are highly contaminated by metals, notably copper (1445 and 835mg/kg, in the unweathered and naturally-weathered sediments, respectively), lead (760 and 1260mg/kg, respectively), zinc (2085 and 2550mg/kg, respectively), as well as by organic contaminants (PAH, PCB) and organometallics (organotins). A high concentration of sulfide minerals was also observed both in the unweathered sediment preserved under water (3.4wt% of pyrite especially), and in the naturally weathered sediment (2wt% pyrite), and in particular framboïdal pyrite was observed in the two materials. The presence of reactive mineral species in the naturally-weathered sediment can be explained by the deposit of a protective layer, composed of sulfide and their oxidation products (sulfate and iron oxides), thus preventing oxygen from diffusing through to the sulfide minerals. Additionally, the presence of aluminosilicates aggregates coating the sulfide minerals could also explain their presence in the naturally-weathered sediment. As organic matter is one of the principal constituents of the sediments (5.8 and 6.3wt% total organic carbon in the unweathered and weathered sediment, respectively), the aggregates are probably partially constituted of refractory humic material. It therefore appears that the natural weathering has led to a significant decrease in PAHs and organotins, but not in PCBs. The evolution of the granulometric structure and the distribution of the metallic contaminants could therefore lead us to consider a treatment by size separation, and a possible valorization of the dredged sediments in civil engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julien Couvidat
- Université de Lyon, INSA Lyon, Laboratoire Déchets Eaux Environnement Pollutions (DEEP) - EA 7429, 7 rue de la Physique, 69621 Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Vincent Chatain
- Université de Lyon, INSA Lyon, Laboratoire Déchets Eaux Environnement Pollutions (DEEP) - EA 7429, 7 rue de la Physique, 69621 Villeurbanne Cedex, France.
| | - Hassan Bouzahzah
- Université de Liège (ULG), Laboratoire de Génie Minéral, Matériaux et Environnement (GeMMe), Allée de la découverte, 13/A. Bât. B52/3 Sart-Tilman, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Université de Lyon, INSA Lyon, Laboratoire Déchets Eaux Environnement Pollutions (DEEP) - EA 7429, 7 rue de la Physique, 69621 Villeurbanne Cedex, France; UQAT-Polytechnique, Institut de Recherche en Mines et Environnement (IRME), 445 Boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda J9X 5E4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Edahbi M, Plante B, Benzaazoua M, Ward M, Pelletier M. Mobility of rare earth elements in mine drainage: Influence of iron oxides, carbonates, and phosphates. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 199:647-654. [PMID: 29462770 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.02.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The geochemical behavior of rare earth elements (REE) was investigated using weathering cells. The influence of sorption and precipitation on dissolved REE mobility and fractionation is evaluated using synthetic iron-oxides, carbonates, and phosphates. Sorption cell tests are conducted on the main lithologies of the expected waste rocks from the Montviel deposit. The sorbed materials are characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with a microanalysis system (energy dispersive spectroscopy EDS) (SEM-EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) in order to understand the effect of the synthetic minerals on REE mobility. The results confirm that sorption and precipitation control the mobility and fractionation of REE. The main sorbent phases are the carbonates, phosphates (present as accessory minerals in the Montviel waste rocks), and iron oxides (main secondary minerals generated upon weathering of the Montviel lithologies). The XANES results show that REE are present as trivalent species after weathering. Thermodynamic equilibrium calculations results using Visual Minteq suggest that REE could precipitate as secondary phosphates (REEPO4).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Edahbi
- Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), 445 boul de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, J9X 5E4 QC, Canada
| | - Benoît Plante
- Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), 445 boul de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, J9X 5E4 QC, Canada
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), 445 boul de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, J9X 5E4 QC, Canada.
| | - Matthew Ward
- CLS@APS, Canadian Light Source Inc., 9700 S Cass Ave, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Edahbi M, Plante B, Benzaazoua M, Pelletier M. Geochemistry of rare earth elements within waste rocks from the Montviel carbonatite deposit, Québec, Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:10997-11010. [PMID: 29404951 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1309-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Several rare earth element (REE) mine projects around the world are currently at the feasibility stage. Unfortunately, few studies have evaluated the contamination potential of REE and their effects on the environment. In this project, the waste rocks from the carbonatites within the Montviel proterozoic alkaline intrusion (near Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Quebec, Canada) are assessed in this research. The mineralization is mainly constituted by light REE (LREE) fluorocarbonates (qaqarssukite-Ce, kukharenkoite-Ce), LREE carbonates (burbankite, Sr-Ba-Ca-REE, barytocalcite, strontianite, Ba-REE-carbonates), and phosphates (apatite, monazite). The gangue minerals are biotites, chlorite, albite, ankerite, siderite, and calcite. The SEM-EDS analyses show that (i) the majority of REE are associated with the fine fraction (< 106 μm), (ii) REE are mainly associated with carbonates, (iii) all analyzed minerals preferably contain LREE (La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu), (iv) the sum of LREE in each analyzed mineral varies between ~ 3 and 10 wt%, (v) the heavy REE (HREE) identified are Gd and Yb at < 0.4 wt%, and (vi) three groups of carbonate minerals were observed containing variable concentrations of Ca, Na, and F. Furthermore, the mineralogical composition of REE-bearing minerals, REE mobility, and REE speciation was investigated. The leachability and geochemical behavior of these REE-bearing mine wastes were tested using normalized kinetic testing (humidity cells). Leachate results displayed higher LREE concentrations, with decreasing shale-normalized patterns. Thermodynamical equilibrium calculations suggest that the precipitation of secondary REE minerals may control the REE mobility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Edahbi
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, J9X 5E4, Canada
| | - Benoît Plante
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, J9X 5E4, Canada.
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, J9X 5E4, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rare Earth Elements (La, Ce, Pr, Nd, and Sm) from a Carbonatite Deposit: Mineralogical Characterization and Geochemical Behavior. MINERALS 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/min8020055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
21
|
Çelebi EE, Öncel MS, Kobya M. Acid production potentials of massive sulfide minerals and lead-zinc mine tailings: a medium-term study. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2018; 77:260-268. [PMID: 29339625 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2017.541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Weathering of sulfide minerals is a principal source of acid generation. To determine acid-forming potentials of sulfide-bearing materials, two basic approaches named static and kinetic tests are available. Static tests are short-term, and easily undertaken within a few days and in a laboratory. In contrast, kinetic tests are long-term procedures and mostly carried out on site. In this study, experiments were conducted over a medium-term period of 2 months, not as short as static tests and also not as long as kinetic tests. As a result, pH and electrical conductivity oscillations as a function of time, acid-forming potentials and elemental contents of synthetically prepared rainwater leachates of massive sulfides and sulfide-bearing lead-zinc tailings from abandoned and currently used deposition areas have been determined. Although the lowest final pH of 2.70 was obtained in massive pyrite leachate, massive chalcopyrite leachate showed the highest titrable acidity of 1.764 g H2SO4/L. On the other hand, a composite of currently deposited mine tailings showed no acidic characteristic with a final pH of 7.77. The composite abandoned mine tailing leachate had a final pH of 6.70, close to the final pH of massive galena and sphalerite leachates, and produced a slight titrable acidity of 0.130 g H2SO4/L.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emin Ender Çelebi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Engineering Faculty, Gebze Technical University, Gebze, Kocaeli 41400, Turkey E-mail:
| | - Mehmet Salim Öncel
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Engineering Faculty, Gebze Technical University, Gebze, Kocaeli 41400, Turkey E-mail:
| | - Mehmet Kobya
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Engineering Faculty, Gebze Technical University, Gebze, Kocaeli 41400, Turkey E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chopard A, Benzaazoua M, Bouzahzah H, Plante B, Marion P. A contribution to improve the calculation of the acid generating potential of mining wastes. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 175:97-107. [PMID: 28211340 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Mine wastes from sulfide-bearing ore extraction and processing are often stored at the surface of mine sites and could generate mine drainage. Prediction tests are completed to predict the water quality associated with the deposition of mining wastes. Static tests can quickly assess the acid-generating potential (AP) and the neutralization potential (NP). Whereas some studies recommend to take into account a mineral reactivity factor for the NP determination, the reactivity rates of acidifying minerals are not considered in the AP calculation. The aim of this study is to bring contribution to the improvement of the static test determination by adding kinetic factors in the AP determination. Eight sulfides (pyrite, Ni-pyrite, pyrrhotite, Ni-pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, arsenopyrite) and a sulfosalt (gersdorffite) were separately submitted to kinetic tests in modified weathering cells. This test was selected for its rapidity of results and for the low amount of material used, as it is somewhat difficult to obtain pure minerals samples. Five synthetic tailings were composed by mixing pure sulfides in various proportions and submitted to the same kinetic tests. The oxidation rates of synthetic tailings were compared with the weighted combined oxidation rates of individual pure sulfides. The oxidation rates of the synthetic tailings calculated from those of pure sulfides are within the same order of magnitude than those obtained through the kinetic experiments. The AP of synthetic tailings were calculated according to standard equations of the literature and compared with the new method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Chopard
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada.
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| | - Hassan Bouzahzah
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| | - Benoît Plante
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| | - Philippe Marion
- GeoRessources, Université de Lorraine (UL), École Nationale Supérieure de Géologie (ENSG), Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Li J, Chen N, Rajan I, Sun Z, Wu H, Chen D, Kong L. The geochemical release feature of Tl in Tl-rich pyrite mine wastes: a long-term leaching test. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:12212-12219. [PMID: 28353103 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-8809-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Identifying and revealing the geochemical behaviour of Tl during mine waste weathering are very important to assess the potential environmental impact of Thallium (Tl) from open mine-waste piles. Herein, two methods including the modified BCR sequential extraction and the long-term humidity cell tests (HCT) were employed to understand the Tl chemical fractions and to stimulate intense chemical weathering process, respectively. The results from BCR sequential extraction showed that the Tl concentration in the studied sample was 18.78 mg/kg, containing 1.878 mg/kg oxidisable, 0.282 mg/kg acid exchangeable and 1.596 mg/kg reducible Tl. The acid exchangeable fraction contributed to a particular potential risk to the aquatic marine life in the early stages and the Fe/Mn oxidisable fraction posed a potential risk being dissolved into solution at low pH (i.e. acidic conditions). The variations of Tl concentration in leachates were classified as two period as the pH values decrease. In the first period, the Tl concentrations decreased positively with pH value with poor correlation between pH value and SO42- concentration in leachates. Drastic release of Tl was observed in the early period once the material was exposed to air and water, being ascribe to the acid exchangeable fraction bound to carbonate as dissolved by acid. During the second period, three increased peaks of Tl concentration (11.02, 16.03, 43.15 μg/L) and four increased peaks of SO42- concentration (315, 390, 899.61 and 2670 mg/L) were observed. A good correlation (R 2 = 0.8384) between the concentrations of Tl and SO42- was observed, indicating the Tl was mainly released from the oxidation of sulphide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinwen Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Global ARD Testing Services Inc., Burnaby, Canada
| | - Nan Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Provincial Radioactive Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ivy Rajan
- Global ARD Testing Services Inc., Burnaby, Canada
| | - Zhehua Sun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Huiming Wu
- Provincial Radioactive Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Diyun Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
- Provincial Radioactive Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Key Laboratory Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Lingjun Kong
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kandji EHB, Plante B, Bussière B, Beaudoin G, Dupont PP. Geochemical behavior of ultramafic waste rocks with carbon sequestration potential: a case study of the Dumont Nickel Project, Amos, Québec. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:11734-11751. [PMID: 28337624 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-8735-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The geochemical behavior of ultramafic waste rocks and the effect of carbon sequestration by these waste rocks on the water drainage quality were investigated using laboratory-scale kinetic column tests on samples from the Dumont Nickel Project (RNC Minerals, QC, Canada). The test results demonstrated that atmospheric CO2 dissolution induced the weathering of serpentine and brucite within the ultramafic rocks, generating high concentrations of Mg and HCO3- with pH values ranging between 9 and 10 in the leachates that promote the precipitation of secondary Mg carbonates. These alkaline pH values appear to have prevented the mobilization of many metals; Fe, Ni, Cu, and Zn were found at negligible concentrations in the leachates. Posttesting characterization using chemical analyses, diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations confirmed the precipitation of secondary hydrated Mg carbonates as predicted by thermodynamic calculations. The formation of secondary Mg carbonates induced cementation of the waste particles, resulting in the development of a hardpan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- El Hadji Babacar Kandji
- Research Institute in Mining and Environment (RIME), UQAT (Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue), 445 boulevard de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, J9X 5E4, Canada
| | - Benoit Plante
- Research Institute in Mining and Environment (RIME), UQAT (Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue), 445 boulevard de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, J9X 5E4, Canada.
| | - Bruno Bussière
- Research Institute in Mining and Environment (RIME), UQAT (Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue), 445 boulevard de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, J9X 5E4, Canada
| | - Georges Beaudoin
- Department of Geology and Geological Engineering, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Oh C, Ji S, Yim G, Cheong Y. Evaluation of net acid generation pH as a single indicator for acid forming potential of rocks using geochemical properties. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 189:165. [PMID: 28299504 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-017-5869-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The main purpose of this research was to evaluate the geochemical properties of rocks for a single indicator of acid-forming potential. The indicators, such as net acid generation (NAG), NAG pH and total S, were applied to 312 rock samples of various geological characteristics. Additional indicators, such as a Modified NAG pH, paste pH and available acid neutralizing capacity (ANC), were applied to 22 selected samples. Among them, NAG pH was considered the most plausible single indicator in evaluating acid-forming potential, as it is simple to measure, widely applicable to various samples and can be used to estimate the NAG value. The acid-forming potential of 287 samples (92% of samples examined in this research) was classified as either non-acid forming (NAF) or potentially acid forming (PAF) by NAG pH, with an NAF criteria of <3.21 and PAF of >4.52. The NAG pH was also a good estimate of the risk of short-term acid release when combined with paste pH information. However, application of NAG pH to coal mine wastes, with high organic carbon contents, produced erroneous results due to the generation of organic acid during the NAG test. In this research, a Modified NAG pH was assessed as an alternative to NAG pH in such situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chamteut Oh
- Geologic Environment Division, Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Sangwoo Ji
- Climate Change Mitigation and Sustainability Division, Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources, Daejeon, South Korea.
| | - Giljae Yim
- Geologic Environment Division, Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Youngwook Cheong
- Geologic Environment Division, Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources, Daejeon, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chopard A, Plante B, Benzaazoua M, Bouzahzah H, Marion P. Geochemical investigation of the galvanic effects during oxidation of pyrite and base-metals sulfides. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 166:281-291. [PMID: 27705822 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.09.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Predicting the water quality at mine sites is of significant importance for developing mines with respect for the environment. Acid mine drainage (AMD) occurs when sulfides are in contact with oxygen and water, and several parameters and mechanisms influence final drainage quality. Galvanic interactions influence the reactivity of sulfide minerals, which act as semi-conductors. These galvanic interactions have been insufficiently studied in the context of AMD generation. In this study, the influence of pyrite on the reactivity of sphalerite and chalcopyrite was investigated. Five blends, comprised of free grains of quartz/pyrite, quartz/chalcopyrite, quartz/sphalerite, quartz/pyrite/chalcopyrite, and quartz/pyrite/sphalerite, were subjected to geochemical testing. Five weathering cells were monitored over a 200-day period during which they were leached twice weekly. Leachates were analyzed for pH, Eh, electrical conductivity, and sulfate and metal concentrations. The results of these analyses showed that galvanic interactions occurred between free sulfide grains. Pyrite was galvanically protected over the full testing period in the quartz/pyrite/chalcopyrite blend, and partially protected in the quartz/pyrite/sphalerite blend. Moreover, the release of Cu from chalcopyrite and Zn, Mn, and Cd from sphalerite was accelerated in the presence of pyrite. This work provides a better understanding of the influence of pyrite on chalcopyrite and sphalerite reactivity by highlighting the galvanic effects. In the future, to improve the reliability of AMD prediction tests, galvanic interactions should be considered in both the prediction of the acid generation potential and the estimation of metal and metalloid release rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Chopard
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), 445, boulevard de l'Université, J9X 5E4 Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada.
| | - Benoît Plante
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), 445, boulevard de l'Université, J9X 5E4 Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), 445, boulevard de l'Université, J9X 5E4 Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| | - Hassan Bouzahzah
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (IRME), University of Québec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), 445, boulevard de l'Université, J9X 5E4 Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada
| | - Philippe Marion
- GeoRessources, Université de Lorraine (UL), École Nationale Supérieure de Géologie (ENSG), 2, rue du Doyen Marcel Roubault, TSA 70605, F-54518 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy Cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Couvidat J, Benzaazoua M, Chatain V, Bouzahzah H. Environmental evaluation of dredged sediment submitted to a solidification stabilization process using hydraulic binders. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:17142-17157. [PMID: 27215982 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6869-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Dredging of sediments, a requirement for harbor maintenance, removes millions of tons of mineral wastes, contaminated at varying degrees with trace metals, from the water. In previous investigations, Cu and Zn have been identified as highly concentrated trace metals associated to sulfides, mineral phases sensitive to oxidation. In order to ensure their sustainable management, the solidification/stabilization (S/S) and/or the valorization of contaminated sediments as secondary raw materials is a way to be promoted. Indeed, their reuse as a substitute of sand in cemented mortar formulation would allow combining both treatment and valorization of such wastes. METHODS In the present study, the environmental assessment of mortars formulated with raw and weathered marine sediments (in particular contaminated with Cu, Pb and Zn), compared to sand reference mortars, was conducted through two kinetic leaching tests: weathering cell tests (WCTs), in which mortars were crushed and leached twice a week, and a tank monolith leaching test (MLT), in which leaching was performed on monolithic mortars with increasing leachate renewal time. RESULTS In both leaching tests, calcium and sulfur were released continuously from sediment mortars, showing the oxidation-neutralization processes of sulfides and carbonates. In the MLT, Cu was released by sediment mortars through diffusion, particularly by weathered mortars, at low concentrations during 60 days of the test duration. With the more aggressive WCT, Cu concentrations were higher at the beginning but became negligible after 7 days of testing. Pb was released through diffusion mechanisms until depletion in both tests, whereas Zn was particularly well immobilized in the cemented matrices. CONCLUSIONS The S/S process applied using hydraulic binders proved to be efficient in the stabilization of Cu, Pb, and Zn highly presents in studied sediments, and further valorization in civilian engineering applications could be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julien Couvidat
- Université de Lyon - INSA Lyon, Laboratoire DEEP - EA 7429 (Déchets Eaux Environnement Pollutions - Wastes Water Environment Pollutions), Bâtiment Sadi Carnot - 20 avenue Albert Einstein, 69621, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Université de Lyon - INSA Lyon, Laboratoire DEEP - EA 7429 (Déchets Eaux Environnement Pollutions - Wastes Water Environment Pollutions), Bâtiment Sadi Carnot - 20 avenue Albert Einstein, 69621, Villeurbanne Cedex, France
- UQAT-Polytechnique, IRME (Institut de Recherche en Mines et Environnement (IRME), 445 Boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, J9X 5E4, QC, Canada
| | - Vincent Chatain
- Université de Lyon - INSA Lyon, Laboratoire DEEP - EA 7429 (Déchets Eaux Environnement Pollutions - Wastes Water Environment Pollutions), Bâtiment Sadi Carnot - 20 avenue Albert Einstein, 69621, Villeurbanne Cedex, France.
| | - Hassan Bouzahzah
- UQAT-Polytechnique, IRME (Institut de Recherche en Mines et Environnement (IRME), 445 Boul. de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, J9X 5E4, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yucel DS, Baba A. Prediction of acid mine drainage generation potential of various lithologies using static tests: Etili coal mine (NW Turkey) as a case study. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2016; 188:473. [PMID: 27435620 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The Etili neighborhood in Can County (northwestern Turkey) has large reserves of coal and has been the site of many small- to medium-scale mining operations since the 1980s. Some of these have ceased working while others continue to operate. Once activities cease, the mining facilities and fields are usually abandoned without rehabilitation. The most significant environmental problem is acid mine drainage (AMD). This study was carried out to determine the acid generation potential of various lithological units in the Etili coal mine using static test methods. Seventeen samples were selected from areas with high acidic water concentrations: from different alteration zones belonging to volcanic rocks, from sedimentary rocks, and from coals and mine wastes. Static tests (paste pH, standard acid-base accounting, and net acid generation tests) were performed on these samples. The consistency of the static test results showed that oxidation of sulfide minerals, especially pyrite-which is widely found not only in the alteration zones of volcanic rocks but also in the coals and mine wastes-is the main factor controlling the generation of AMD in this mine. Lack of carbonate minerals in the region also increases the occurrence of AMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alper Baba
- Department of Civil Engineering, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Maqsoud A, Neculita CM, Bussière B, Benzaazoua M, Dionne J. Impact of fresh tailing deposition on the evolution of groundwater hydrogeochemistry at the abandoned Manitou mine site, Quebec, Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:9054-9072. [PMID: 26832863 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6111-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The abandoned Manitou mine site has produced acid mine drainage (AMD) for several decades. In order to limit the detrimental environmental impacts of AMD, different rehabilitation scenarios were proposed and analyzed. The selected rehabilitation scenario was to use fresh tailings from the neighboring Goldex gold mine as monolayer cover and to maintain an elevated water table. In order to assess the impact of the Goldex tailing deposition on the hydrogeochemistry of the Manitou mine site, a network of 30 piezometers was installed. These piezometers were used for continuous measurement of the groundwater level, as well as for water sampling campaigns for chemical quality monitoring, over a 3-year period. Hydrochemical data were analyzed using principal component analysis. Results clearly showed the benefic impact of fresh tailing deposition on the groundwater quality around the contaminated area. These findings were also confirmed by the evolution of electrical conductivity. In addition to the improvement of the physicochemical quality of water on the Manitou mine site, new tailing deposition induced an increase of water table level. However, at this time, the Manitou reactive tailings are not completely submerged and possible oxidation might still occur, especially after ceasing of the fresh tailing deposition. Therefore, complementary rehabilitation scenarios should still be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdelkabir Maqsoud
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Quebec in Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT), 445 University Blvd, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada, J9X 5E4.
| | - Carmen Mihaela Neculita
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Quebec in Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT), 445 University Blvd, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada, J9X 5E4
| | - Bruno Bussière
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Quebec in Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT), 445 University Blvd, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada, J9X 5E4
| | - Mostafa Benzaazoua
- Research Institute on Mines and Environment (RIME), University of Quebec in Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT), 445 University Blvd, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada, J9X 5E4
| | - Jean Dionne
- Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, 5700, 4ème Av. Ouest, Quebec, QC, Canada, G1S 4X4
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Argane R, El Adnani M, Benzaazoua M, Bouzahzah H, Khalil A, Hakkou R, Taha Y. Geochemical behavior and environmental risks related to the use of abandoned base-metal tailings as construction material in the upper-Moulouya district, Morocco. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:598-611. [PMID: 26330319 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-5292-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In some developing countries, base-metal residues that were abandoned in tailing ponds or impoundments are increasingly used as construction material without any control, engineering basis, or environmental concern. This uncontrolled reuse of mine tailings may constitute a new form of pollution risks for humans and ecosystems through metal leaching. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to assess mine drainage, metal mobility, and geochemical behavior of two abandoned mine tailings commonly used in the upper-Moulouya region (eastern Morocco) as fine aggregates for mortar preparation. Their detailed physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties were subsequently evaluated in the context of developing appropriate alternative reuses to replace their conventional disposal and limit their weathering exposure. The obtained results showed that both tailings contain relatively high quantities of residual metals and metalloids with lead (ranging between 3610 and 5940 mg/kg) being the major pollutant. However, the mineralogical investigations revealed the presence of abundant neutralizing minerals and low sulfide content which influence mine drainage geochemistry and subsequently lower metals mobility. In fact, leachate analyses from weathering cell kinetic tests showed neutral conditions and low sulfide oxidation rates. According to these results, the tailings used as construction material in the upper-Moulouya region have very low generating potential of contaminated effluents and their reuse as aggregates may constitute a sustainable alternative method for efficient tailing management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Argane
- Laboratoire de Génie Civil et d'Ingénierie Environnementale, Université de Lyon, INSA-Lyon, 20 av. A. Einstein, 69621, Villeurbanne cedex, France.
- Laboratoire de Chimie des Matériaux et de l'Environnement, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université Cadi Ayyad, 40000, Marrakech, Morocco.
| | - M El Adnani
- Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Mines de Rabat Avenue, Hadj Ahmed Cherkaoui BP 753, Agdal, Rabat, Morocco
| | - M Benzaazoua
- Laboratoire de Génie Civil et d'Ingénierie Environnementale, Université de Lyon, INSA-Lyon, 20 av. A. Einstein, 69621, Villeurbanne cedex, France
- UQAT, 445 Boulevards de l'université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - H Bouzahzah
- UQAT, 445 Boulevards de l'université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| | - A Khalil
- Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Mines de Rabat Avenue, Hadj Ahmed Cherkaoui BP 753, Agdal, Rabat, Morocco
| | - R Hakkou
- Laboratoire de Chimie des Matériaux et de l'Environnement, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université Cadi Ayyad, 40000, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Y Taha
- UQAT, 445 Boulevards de l'université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Jia Y, Maurice C, Öhlander B. Mobility of as, Cu, Cr, and Zn from tailings covered with sealing materials using alkaline industrial residues: a comparison between two leaching methods. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:648-660. [PMID: 26330323 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-5300-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Different alkaline residue materials (fly ash, green liquor dregs, and lime mud) generated from the pulp and paper industry as sealing materials were evaluated to cover aged mine waste tailings (<1% sulfur content, primarily pyrite). The mobility of four selected trace elements (Cr, Cu, Zn, and As) was compared based on batch and column leaching studies to assess the effectiveness of these alkaline materials as sealing agents. Based on the leaching results, Cr, Cu, and Zn were immobilized by the alkaline amendments. In the amended tailings in the batch system only As dramatically exceeded the limit values at L/S 10 L/kg. The leaching results showed similar patterns to the batch results, though leached Cr, Cu, and Zn showed higher levels in the column tests than in the batch tests. However, when the columns were compared with the batches, the trend for Cu was opposite for the unamended tailings. By contrast, both batch and column results showed that the amendment caused mobilization of As compared with the unamended tailings in the ash-amended tailings. The amount of As released was greatest in the ash column and decreased from the dregs to the lime columns. The leaching of As at high levels can be a potential problem whenever alkaline materials (especially for fly ash) are used as sealing materials over tailings. The column test was considered by the authors to be a more informative method in remediation of the aged tailings with low sulfur content, since it mimics better actual situation in a field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jia
- Division of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87, Luleå, Sweden.
- Department of Environment and Mineral Resources, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources, 3900, Nuuk, Greenland.
| | - Christian Maurice
- Division of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Björn Öhlander
- Division of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87, Luleå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Couvidat J, Benzaazoua M, Chatain V, Zhang F, Bouzahzah H. An innovative coupling between column leaching and oxygen consumption tests to assess behavior of contaminated marine dredged sediments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:10943-10955. [PMID: 25779112 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4323-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Contaminated dredged sediments are often considered hazardous wastes, so they have to be adequately managed to avoid leaching of pollutants. The mobility of inorganic contaminants is a major concern. Metal sulfides (mainly framboïdal pyrite, copper, and zinc sulfides) have been investigated in this study as an important reactive metal-bearing phase sensitive to atmospheric oxygen action. An oxygen consumption test (OC-Test) has been adapted to assess the reactivity of dredged sediments when exposed to atmospheric oxygen. An experimental column set-up has been developed allowing the coupling between leaching and oxygen consumption test to investigate the reactivity of the sediment. This reactivity, which consisted of sulfide oxidation, was found to occur for saturation degree between 60 and 90 % and until the 20th testing week, through significant sulfates releases. These latter were assumed to come from sulfide oxidation in the first step of the test, then probably from gypsum dissolution. Confrontation results of OC-Test and leachate quality shows that Cu was well correlated to sulfates releases, which in turn, leads to Ca and Mg dissolution (buffer effect). Cu, and mostly Zn, was associated to organic matter, phyllosilicates, and other minerals through organo-clay complexes. This research confirmed that the OC-Test, originally developed for mine tailings, could be a useful tool in the dredged sediment field which can allow for intrinsic characterization of reactivity of a material suspected to readily reacting with oxygen and for better understanding of geochemical processes that affect pollutants behavior, conversion, and transfer in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julien Couvidat
- Laboratoire LGCIE-DEEP (EA 4126), Université de Lyon, INSA-Lyon, Campus LyonTech La Doua - Bâtiment Sadi Carnot - 9 rue de la Physique, 69621, Villeurbanne Cédex, France
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Plante B, Benzaazoua M, Bussière B, Kandji EHB, Chopard A, Bouzahzah H. Use of EDTA in modified kinetic testing for contaminated drainage prediction from waste rocks: case of the Lac Tio mine. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:7882-7896. [PMID: 25604563 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4106-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/11/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The tools developed for acid mine drainage (AMD) prediction were proven unsuccessful to predict the geochemical behavior of mine waste rocks having a significant chemical sorption capacity, which delays the onset of contaminated neutral drainage (CND). The present work was performed in order to test a new approach of water quality prediction, by using a chelating agent solution (0.03 M EDTA, or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) in kinetic testing used for the prediction of the geochemical behavior of geologic material. The hypothesis underlying the proposed approach is that the EDTA solution should chelate the metals as soon as they are released by sulfide oxidation, inhibiting their sorption or secondary precipitation, and therefore reproduce a worst-case scenario where very low metal attenuation mechanisms are present in the drainage waters. Fresh and weathered waste rocks from the Lac Tio mine (Rio tinto, Iron and Titanium), which are known to generate Ni-CND at the field scale, were submitted to small-scale humidity cells in control tests (using deionized water) and using an EDTA solution. Results show that EDTA effectively prevents the metals to be sorbed or to precipitate as secondary minerals, therefore enabling to bypass the delay associated with metal sorption in the prediction of water quality from these materials. This work shows that the use of a chelating agent solution is a promising novel approach of water quality prediction and provides general guidelines to be used in further studies, which will help both practitioners and regulators to plan more efficient management and disposal strategies of mine wastes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benoît Plante
- Research Institute in Mining and the Environment (RIME), UQAT (Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue), 445 boulevard de l'Université, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, J9X 5E4, Canada,
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Othmani MA, Souissi F, Bouzahzah H, Bussière B, da Silva EF, Benzaazoua M. The flotation tailings of the former Pb-Zn mine of Touiref (NW Tunisia): mineralogy, mine drainage prediction, base-metal speciation assessment and geochemical modeling. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:2877-2890. [PMID: 25220771 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3569-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The underground extraction of Pb-Zn mineralization in the Touiref area stopped in 1958. A large volume of flotation tailings (more than 500 Mt) containing sulfides were deposited in a tailings impoundment. The goals of this study are to evaluate the neutralization capacity of the unoxidized and oxidized tailings, to assess the speciation of metals between the different components of the tailings material, and to assess the mobility of metals and the secondary minerals' precipitation in pore waters using geochemical modeling. To accomplish these objectives, representative samples from both fresh and oxidized zones were collected along a vertical profile through the tailings pile. Physical, chemical (ICP-MS), and mineralogical characterization (X-ray diffraction (XRD), reflected light microscopy, scanning electron microscope (SEM)) of these samples was performed. Grain size analysis shows that the tailings are dominated by silt- to sand-sized fractions. The microscopic observation highlights the presence of pyrite, marcasite, galena, and sphalerite as primary minerals in a carbonated matrix. The study reveals also the presence of secondary minerals represented by cerussite, smithsonite, anglesite, and Fe oxi-hydroxides as important scavengers for trace elements. The static tests show that the presence of calcite in the tailing samples ensures acid-neutralizing capacity (ANC), which is significantly greater than the acidity potential (PA). The geochemical characterization of the unoxidized samples shows higher Cd, Pb, and Zn concentrations than the oxidized samples containing the highest values for Fe and SO4. Sequential extraction tests show that significant percentages of metals are distributed between the acid-soluble fractions (Cd, Pb, and Zn) and the reducible one (Zn). Pore water analysis indicates that Ca is the dominant cation (8,170 and 6,200 mg L(-1), respectively), whereas sulfate is the principal anion (6,900 and 5,100 mg L(-1), respectively). Saturation index (SI) calculations of minerals in pore water extracted from both the oxidized and unoxidized samples are indicative of gypsum (SI >0) and Fe(III) oxides (SI ≫0) precipitation. The latter controls the Fe concentration in solution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali Othmani
- Laboratoire de Ressources Minérale et Environnement, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, 2092, Tunis, Tunisia,
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Diavik Waste Rock Project: Evolution of Mineral Weathering, Element Release, and Acid Generation and Neutralization during a Five-Year Humidity Cell Experiment. MINERALS 2014. [DOI: 10.3390/min4020257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
36
|
Coussy S, Benzaazoua M, Blanc D, Moszkowicz P, Bussière B. Arsenic stability in arsenopyrite-rich cemented paste backfills: a leaching test-based assessment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2011; 185:1467-1476. [PMID: 21074944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2010.10.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2010] [Revised: 10/14/2010] [Accepted: 10/19/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic (As) is a toxicant in tailings from sulphur deposits. It represents an environmental risk because of its high solubility. Tailings can be mixed with water (typically 25%) and a low proportion of hydraulic binder (3-7%) to produce a cemented paste backfill (CPB), stored in underground mine openings. CPB is a tailings storage technique, but it could also provide environmental advantages by stabilization of polluting elements such as As. Tailings from Casa Berardi mine (QC, Canada) contain As (3800 ppm), mainly in arsenopyrite form. For this study, three different CPBs were synthesized in laboratory using Casa Berardi tailings and three different binders. These pastes were submitted to various leaching tests after 28 days of curing. The results indicate that As is released at higher concentration for a fly ash-based CPB than for slag- and Portland cement-based CPB. However, at lower pH, As is better stabilized in fly ash-based samples. These differences can be explained by a variation of solubility of As-compounds in each CPB. Several mechanisms of As release occur, as diffusion and/or dissolution/precipitation. The accelerated weathering test results show that sulphide reactivity is buffered by the neutralizing minerals contained in CPB, and influence the As release behaviour by decreasing the oxidation of As-bearing sulphides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Coussy
- Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, 445 Boul. de l'université, Rouyn-Noranda, QC, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Yeheyis MB, Shang JQ, Yanful EK. Long-term evaluation of coal fly ash and mine tailings co-placement: a site-specific study. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2009; 91:237-244. [PMID: 19744768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2009.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2009] [Revised: 07/25/2009] [Accepted: 08/25/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This study presents the results of a laboratory investigation conducted to evaluate the efficiency of coal fly ash to control the formation of acid mine drainage (AMD) from mine waste. Site-specific materials, coal fly ash from Atikokan Thermal Generating Station and mine tailings from Musselwhite mine, were mixed at different proportions for the investigation of the drainage chemistry and the optimal mix using static testing (acid-base accounting) and kinetic (column) testing. The acid-base accounting (ABA) results indicated that the fly ash possessed strong alkaline (neutralization) potential (NP) and could be used in the management of reactive mine tailings, thus ensuring prevention of AMD in the long-term. Column tests conducted in the laboratory to further investigate long-term performance of fly ash in the neutralization and prevention of acid mine drainage from tailings similarly showed that mixing fly ash with mine tailings reduces dissolution of many heavy metals from tailings by providing alkalinity to the system. It was found that a fly ash to tailings mass ratio equal to or greater than 15% can effectively prevent AMD generation from Musselwhite mine tailings in the co-placement approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muluken B Yeheyis
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|