The process mineralogy of mine wastes

摘要: The discipline of process mineralogy developed through the recognition that metallurgical flowsheets could be optimised by thorough characterisation precursor ore mineralogy, mineral associations, grain size and textures. In a procedure analogous to it is shown here effective mine wastes for Acid Rock Drainage Metal(loid) Leaching (ARDML) potential must follow similar set robust practices which include: (i) representative sampling; (ii) static/screening level geochemical tests qualitative mineralogical assessment; (iii) longer-term kinetic quantitative (iv) numerical modelling assess source term chemistry associated with facilities thereby determine impacts receptors. This dependent on sufficiently drill core database detailed plan an assessment possible. Such may limited insufficient budgets, however omission investigation lead lack understanding primary controls waste behaviour. turn, this can over- or under-engineering facilities, have financial and/or environmental implications. Several case studies are presented illustrate how applied solve problems in ARDML prediction mitigation, specifically within rock assessment.