| Principal Investigator: | Stavinga, Drew B (1) |
| Licence Number: | 15199 |
| Organization: | Queen's University |
| Licensed Year(s): |
2013
|
| Issued: | Feb 04, 2013 |
| Project Team: | Heather Jamieson, Drew Stavinga |
Objective(s): To characterize the geochemistry of the Prairie Creek paste backfill; to identify whether the cement binder reduces potential for oxidation; to examine the site specific conditions of the backfill within the underground mine workings; to identify the potential for chemical reaction between the wall rock and backfill and possible impacts; and to evaluate the issues presented by mine water and backfill interaction, water quality control and containment.
Project Description: The objectives of this project will be (1) to characterize the geochemistry of the Prairie Creek paste backfill, (2) identify whether the cement binder reduces potential for oxidation, (3) examine the site specific conditions of the backfill within the underground mine workings, (4) identify the potential for chemical reaction between the wall rock and backfill and possible impacts, and (5) evaluate the issues presented by mine water and backfill interaction, water quality control and containment. A theoretical approach utilizing existing literature and testing of site specific samples and conditions will be followed. Core samples from the mine site collection as well as samples from the ore stockpile at the mine will be collected, stored in bags, and transported back to Queen's University and analyzed for precise mineral characterization using specialized analytical equipment. Wall rock samples from within the underground workings may also be chipped off and collected using a geological hammer. If possible, samples of the paste backfill and mine water will also be collected, being stored in bags and bottles respectively. Site conditions of the underground mine workings may also be tested for pH, temperature ranges, mine drainage flow, metal concentrations and mobility. Comparison to studies at other mines will help to identify the significance of the issues presented by this project. The proposed research project will involve interaction with the Canadian Zinc community liaison individual, providing information to the local community on the ore deposit and the effectiveness of tailings management. The project may also possibly help to identify any potential contaminant risks posed by the practice of paste backfilling to Nahanni National Park, keeping the environment and community’s safe after mine closure. This project will be done in cooperation with Canadian Zinc Corporation. Communication with their community liaison person will be ongoing to supply the results of this study to the local communities. A thesis report will also be made publicly available on the Queen's University website, pending a successful defense. The project may also be presented at various conferences. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from July 1, 2013 to July 31, 2013
