Due to its nature, mining activity produces a lot of water contamination through Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) or Acid Rock Drainage (ARD) and heavy metal contaminated wastewaters. That is why stringent regulations have been established for the industry to help regulate and minimise the impact of mining operations on local water resources.

Generally speaking, contamination of water during mining operations occurs when rock containing sulphidic minerals is exposed to water and oxygen, therefore resulting in acid production and high concentrations of metals and sulphate in the water.

Typically, mine drainage, process water and storm water from industrial activities characterise the types of water produced during mining operations. As such, the treatment of contaminated mine water is driven by two main objectives, those being; to neutralise acidity in the water and to remove metals.

One of the key characteristics of mine wastewater is their level of acidity. An effective way to manage this acidity is by introducing lime, limestone or caustic soda in order to raise the pH (chemical precipitation). A high pH results in the precipitation of dissolved metals, causing them to settle into the bottom of settling or sedimentation ponds.

In this process, we would add our coagulants and flocculants in order to clump smaller particles into larger flocs to help accelerate the settlement process.

Depending on the desired final water quality, there might be other non-chemical interventions that may be required to remove dissolved minerals. This could be achieved through our modular package plants by using the process of reverse osmosis.

At the end of that process the brine byproduct from reverse osmosis can be further treated through evaporation/crystallisation, allowing for a total usage of the wastewater, and providing a zero liquid discharge solution for the mining operator.

Our reverse osmosis technology can facilitate a rehabilitation of up to 65-85% of the wastewater, resulting in a high quality clean water stream that can be re-used in other operational processes or safely discharged into the environment.

If you want to learn more about our innovative wastewater treatment solutions for your mining needs, get in touch with us for a free consultation.