Using by-products for prevention of sulphide oxidation in mine waste

Purpose and goal
The main aim of this project is to develop techniques to prevent sulphide oxidation in mine waste and thus to improve mine drainage quality during and after mining operation. Specific objectives are to: 1. Evaluate cover system and inhibition technologies from an economic, environmental and technical perspective. 2. Utilise residues from the mining industry and other industries in the cover system and inhibition technologies. 3. Develop guidance and quality control system of cover materials built with desulphurised tailings and till, and in combination with other materials.

Structure and implementation
Laboratory experiments will be conducted to evaluate alternative residues for inhibition and cover systems. Cover materials will be based on desulphurised tailings and till, improved with residues from other industries to achieve quality requirements. Geochemical laboratory and field leaching experiments of residues in combination with waste rock to evaluate the extent of inhibition of sulfide oxidation or stabilisation of released elements will be conducted. A demonstration site and a full-scale site will be constructed for long term monitoring and evaluation.

Expected results
The project is expected to lead to development of methodologies, guidance and quality control of how to use residual materials in preventive techniques such as cover system and inhibition or stabilisation with the aim to reduce sulphide oxidation in mine wastes. Pilot and full-scale demonstration sites will be constructed and designed for long-term evaluation of the effectiveness of the technologies for primarily treatment of waste rock.