Passive remediation of acid mine drainage using cryptocrystalline magnesite: a batch experimental and geochemical modelling approach

Abstract

Acid mine drainage is generated when mining activities expose sulphidic rock to water and oxygen leading to generation of sulphuric acid effluents rich in Fe, Al, SO (Sup4) and Mn with minor concentrations of Zn, Cu, Mg, Ca, Pb depending on the geology of the rock hosting the minerals. These effluents must be collected and treated before release into surface water bodies. Mining companies are in constant search for cheaper, effective and efficient mine water treatment technologies. This study assessed the potential of applying magnesite as an initial remediation step in an integrated acid mine drainage (AMD) management system.