Abatement of acid mine drainage using industrial waste products

Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is a phenomenon that occurs when abandoned coalmines fill with water and leach out into the environment. AMD is a persistent industrial pollution problem throughout western Maryland, West Virginia and Virginia. Noting the severity of the problem, efforts have been made to abate acid mine drainage in underground mines using blends of coal combustion byproducts (CCP) and limekiln dust (LKD). In this article, the causes of the AMD are highlighted and its consequences on the environment are briefly discussed. The properties of selected CCB materials are reviewed and suitable CCB grout mix proportions are formulated. The grout mixes were designed to achieve sufficient workability so as to flow freely around obstacles and develop sufficient compressive strength to carryout the overburden with the ultimate aim of forming solid barriers and preventing acid mine drainage. In addition, the early age properties of the grout mixes, which include setting time, bleeding and workability were studied and the compressive strength developments were investigated. All materials used for this study were obtained from by-product suppliers. The findings of this research work have demonstrated the practicality and feasibility of developing CCP grouts for abating Acid Mine Drainage. Based on the encouraging test results, relevant conclusions are made and recommendations are forwarded.