Neutralization of Acid Mine Water with Calcium Carbonate

Abstract

Traditionally, lime is used for the neutralization of acidic effluents. Calcium carbonate should be considered as an alternative because of considerations such as lower cost, low solubility at pH values greater than 7 and simple dosing system required. The paper describes a pilot scale study to determine the technical feasibility of neutralising sulphuric acid-rich water using fluidised bed technology. Limestone was utilised completely when testing iron(III)-rich water, but with iron(II)-rich water, coated limestone particles accumulated in the fluidised-bed reactor. About 70% of the limestone was utilised in the case of water containing 600 mg/l iron(II). A contact time of 4 min was sufficient for the neutralization of acid water containing 4 g/l free acid and 580 mg/l iron(III), compared to 40 min when iron(II) replaced iron(III).