Why acid rock drainage matters
When rock containing sulphide minerals is exposed to air and water, it can produce acid. This acid can carry metals into the environment. Testing mine waste and tailings shows the risk early.
Common tests
- Acid-base accounting (ABA): compares a material’s potential to produce acid with its ability to neutralize it.
- Net acid generation (NAG): the material is oxidized in the laboratory and the acid produced is measured.
- Paste pH: a quick measure of the acidity of a sample mixed with water.
How the results are used
Results support environmental risk assessment and the characterization of tailings and waste rock.
See our acid rock drainage and waste testing.
