Pilot Scale On-Site Evaluation of Activated Carbon for Rapid Oxidation of Ferrous Iron in Acid Mine Water

摘要

A pilot plant for evaluating rapid oxidation of ferrous iron under acidic conditions was designed, fabricated, and operated at a typical mine site for 6 months. The effect of activated carbon as a catalyst on the oxidation reaction was tested using three fluidized carbon bed reactors in series. Test runs for iron oxidation were made at various pH levels with and without the presence of activated carbon. Runs were extended to evaluate the changes in oxidation rate in relation to carbon life. Results of the study indicated that initial enhancement of the oxidation of ferrous iron was not sustained. The increased removal of ferrous iron concentration was found to be due to adsorption by the carbon rather than due to catalysis.