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Measured and computed neutralization potentials from static tests of diverse rock types

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Environmental Geology

Abstract

Static tests typically are used in the initial stage of environmental assessments to predict the potential for acid mine drainage, and also are used to monitor waste disposal at active mining operations. The neutralization potential (NP) of 19 sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous extrusive rocks was measured by the Sobek method to compare the results with those computed by using the quantitative mineralogy of the rocks and the NP values that were deemed to be appropriate for the individual minerals. Most of the computed NP values of the rocks are lower than the measured values, but a close relationship is evident. If the contents of carbonate minerals are low, the NP in non-ultramafic igneous rocks typically is controlled by the amount of Ca substitution in plagioclase, whereas in ultramafic rocks the NP contribution is dominated by the amount of olivine and serpentine. Compositional and NP analyses of plagioclase concentrates indicate that the NP systematically varies from <1 for the Na end-member to about 14 for compositions near that of the Ca end-member. Among several variables that can affect the Sobek NP values, the volume and normality of the acid added to the sample are well-known to influence the results; however, the temperature and duration of the acidification stage can also have a pronounced effect on the measured NP of some rocks, depending on their mineralogy. Fizz tests to estimate the carbonate content and the consequent acid addition are highly subjective, and the ‘no fizz’ rating is not to be taken literally. The NP results themselves provide a clear indication of whether a sample has been over-acidified or under-acidified in the test procedure.

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Acknowledgments

Extensive technical assistance in various aspects of the study was kindly provided by A. Kuiper, G. Poirier, T.T. Chen, and J.M.D. Wilson of CANMET, by members of the Analytical Services Group at CANMET, and by E. Pani and S.A. Wilson at EOS, University of British Columbia. Specimens of plagioclase were generously donated by J.S. Scoates of EOS, and by the Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa. Partial support was provided by the National Science and Engineering Research Council in the form of a Discovery Grant to M.R.

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Appendix: Quantitative mineralogy by optical microscopy and by Rietveld refinement of X-ray diffractometry data

Appendix: Quantitative mineralogy by optical microscopy and by Rietveld refinement of X-ray diffractometry data

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Table 7  

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Jambor, J.L., Dutrizac, J.E. & Raudsepp, M. Measured and computed neutralization potentials from static tests of diverse rock types. Environ Geol 52, 1173–1185 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00254-006-0555-z

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