MULTIPHASE TRANSFER PROCESSES IN WASTE ROCK PILES PRODUCING ACID MINE DRAINAGE 1:CONCEPTUAL MODEL AND SYSTEM CHARACTERIZATION

Conceptual model of the physical process activity within waste rock piles of mining exploitation. Definition of coupling of processes affecting acidic mine drainage. Feedback loops linking pyrite oxygenation and oxygen- supply mechanisms. Effect of internal and external conditions on transfer processes. Characterisation and monitoring of waste rock piles, interpretation methods available to determine the physicochemical conditions and properties of waste rock piles. Properties of waste material are related to the pyrite oxidation rates for two mines in Canada. Indications on fluid flow, heat transfer and gas diffusion. Comparison of properties of the two sites.