Acid Mine Drainage
AMD occurs when sulphide minerals oxidize in exposed tailings and waste rock, producing acidic, metal-laden drainage.
Prevention
Covers (soil, clay, geosynthetic), flooding and alkaline amendment prevent oxygen ingress and AMD generation.
Active Treatment
Lime neutralization, chemical precipitation and reverse osmosis treat AMD to meet discharge standards.
Passive Treatment
Wetlands, anoxic limestone drains and bioreactors treat AMD with minimal operating cost for remote sites.