Interactions between dolomite and acid mine drainage in the Witwatersrand - Results of field and laboratory studies and the implications for natural attenuation in the West Rand Goldfield

摘要

Since 2002, acid mine drainage (AMD) has discharged from the West Rand Goldfield of the Witwatersrand into nearby streams and through subsurface flow into the adjacent dolomitic aquifer. Surface discharge has also been shown to recharge the dolomitic aquifer. This has led to fears of increased dissolution of the dolomite which, it has been proposed, could lead to land subsidence in the affected area. Laboratory investigations show that precipitation of resistant mineral coatings on reactive carbonate surfaces limit the potential for dissolution of dolomite and the potential for natural attenuation.