Tags: physical sciences, mining, hydrology, metals, waste rock
| Principal Investigator: | Blowes, David W. (24) |
| Licence Number: | 13908 |
| Organization: | University of Waterloo |
| Licensed Year(s): |
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2005
|
| Issued: | Aug 19, 2005 |
| Project Team: | Michael Moncur, Jeffrey Bain, Mandy Moore, Leslie Smith, David Sego, Renata Classen, Douglas Gould |
Project Description: In this project four test-scale piles will be studied, two composed of rock from the diamond mine site, and two composed of mine rock with reclaimation covers placed on the top. Under study are the hydrology of the piles, the release of metals by sulfide oxidation and the attenuation of these metals through the formation of secondary minerals. The concentrations of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the pore gas of the piles will also be monitored as indicators of the extent of sulfide oxidation and acid neutralization. The growth and activity of bacteria that catalyze sulfide oxidation will also be studied. This study will assist mining companies in evaluating their current waste rock pile designs for long-term protection of the environment, and can also be used to assess the effect of climate change on waste rock disposal systems. The research team will present the research results to Diavik personnel, as well as interested parties upon request. A final report will be given to the Aurora Research Institute. The study will be conducted at Lac de Gras.
