Alfred Weber und die Kultursoziologie

Abstract

This chapter discusses reactions in tailings and waste rock piles, with emphasis on the role of mineralogy in understanding the reactions since remediation and control of acid mine drainage from tailings and waste rock piles are dependent upon reactions in the piles, and as the minerals in the piles are the source materials for the reactions. Metal mining operations produce large volumes of tailings and waste rock, which need to be disposed of at nearby locations. The wastes usually contain small to large amounts of pyrite and/or pyrrhotite and trace amounts of valuable minerals. Oxidation of pyrite and pyrrhotite generates acidic water, which dissolves the sulfide minerals and releases hazardous elements into the water drainage system. Mining development has always required a plan for disposal of tailings and waste rock. Because acid mine drainage (AMD) and acid rock drainage (ARD) produce environmental hazards, numerous investigations have been conducted on AMD and ARD. A proper understanding of the mineralogical and chemical reactions within tailings and waste rock piles is essential when planning for disposal of mine wastes in an environmentally acceptable manner.