Water Management At Abandoned Flooded Underground Mines

This book addresses the processes related to mine abandonment from a hydrogeological perspective and provides a comprehensive presentation of water management and innovative tracer techniques for flooded mines. After an introduction to the relevant hydrogeochemical processes the book gives detailed information about mine closure procedures. The book also includes case studies and hints, and some new methodologies for conducting tracer tests in flooded mines.

Nowhere is the conflict between economic progress and environmental quality more apparent than in the mineral extraction industries. The latter half of the 20th century saw major advances in the reclamation technologies. However, mine water pollution problems have not been addressed. In many cases, polluted mine water long outlives the life of the mining operation. As the true cost of long-term water treatment responsibilities has become apparent, interest has grown in the technologies that would decrease the production of contaminated water and make its treatment less costly. This is the first book to address the mine water issue head-on. The authors explain the complexities of mine water pollution by reviewing the hydrogeological context of its formation, and provide an up-to-date presentation of prevention and treatment technologies. The book will be a valuable reference for all professionals who encounter polluted mine water on a regular or occasional basis.

This report is prepared in response to the requirements of P.L. 92-500, Section 304(e)(2)(B). It was prepared for use by planners, engineers and resource managers and provides information on the chemistry and geographic extent of mine drainage pollution in the U.S. from inactive and abandoned underground mines; underground mining methods and the characterization of mine drainage control techniques.

Recent developments have provided the opportunity to recover valuable materials from AMD treatment; this is a sustainable approach that allows to reduce waste while generating incomes that balance the cost of the treatment. This book provides insights to innovative and affordable routes for AMD valorisation that can certainly motivate the mining industry to effectively manage their wastes and minimize environmental impact while generating jobs opportunities.