Copper Dump Leaching and Management Practices That Minimize the Potential for Environmental Releases

摘要

The report presents a description of the magnitude and distribution of copper dump leaching, the design and operation of leaching facilities, the potential for environmental impact, and management practices that can be used to minimize environmental releases. Ten leaching operations were visited to acquire firsthand knowledge and site-specific information. Seepage from leach dumps and process solution collection systems is the most significant potential mechanism for the release on contaminants. These solutions have low pH and high concentrations of metals and total dissolved solids (TDS). Ground-water impacts have been documented. The application and efficiency of standard waste management practices at dump leach operations are site-specific and are limited by the magnitude of these facilities.