Low-Cost Technologies for Mining Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

The mining industry has contributed tremendously to the global economy. However, waste generated by this activity poses many challenges. Current low-cost technologies for the removal of heavy metals from mining wastewater include biosorption, adsorption, CWs (Constructed Wetlands) and waste stabilization ponds. This chapter focuses on sustainable mining wastewater treatment technologies with emphasis on gold mining wastewater. It discusses the technical and environmental challenges associated with mining effluent treatment, process conditions for optimum plant performance, efficiency, limitations and the economics of treating mining wastewater. The overall treatment cost of metal contaminated wastewater depends on the process employed and the local conditions. In general, technical applicability, cost-effectiveness and plant simplicity are the key factors in selecting the most suitable treatment method. Proper management of the spent biosorbent and solid wastes generated is also discussed.