Remediation of abandoned mines using coal combustion by-products
- University of Maryland, College Park, MD (US). Dept. of Civil & Environmental Engineering
Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a phenomenon that occurs when pyrite that is present in abandoned coal mines comes in contact with oxygen and water, which results in the formation of sulfuric acid and iron hydroxide. Grouting of an abandoned mine with alkaline materials provides a permanent reduction in acid production. This study investigates the success of coal combustion by-product (CCB)-based grout mixtures in reducing AMD. The laboratory phase included testing of grouts with different proportions of Class F fly ash, flue gas desulfurization by-product, fluidized bed combustion by-product, and quicklime, for slump, modified flow, bleed, and strength. Then the selected optimal grout mixture was injected into the Frazee mine, located in Western Maryland. Pre- and post-injection water quality data were collected to assess the long-term success of the grouting operation by analyzing mine water, surface water, and groundwater. Overall, the results indicated that CCB-based grouts can control the acid mine drainage. However, the mechanical properties of the grout are highly critical for the construction phase, and long-term monitoring is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of the grouting process.
- OSTI ID:
- 20647579
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, Journal Name: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering Journal Issue: 8 Vol. 131; ISSN 1090-0241; ISSN JGGEFK
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
An overview of the western Maryland coal combustion by-products/acid mine drainage initiative, Part 1 of 3
Mapping of the Frazee Mine, the Western Maryland Coal Combustion By-Products/Acid Mine Drainage Initiative, Part 2 of 3