SYNOPSIS

AMD occurs when sulfide minerals in mine waste materials react with oxygen and water, producing sulfuric acid. This acidic runoff can contaminate nearby water sources, posing serious environmental risks to aquatic life, vegetation, and human health. The Acid Base Accounting (ABA) method used in the assessment is specifically designed to quantify the potential of waste rocks to generate acidity when exposed to air and water.It evaluates the balance between acid-generating processes (such as oxidation of sulfide minerals) and acid-neutralizing processes (such as dissolution of alkaline carbonates and weathering of silicates).

Through this assessment, mining industries can identify waste materials with a high potential for generating acidity, which poses a significant AMD risk. By understanding which rocks or tailings have the potential to produce acid, mining companies can implement appropriate management practices to prevent or minimize AMD. This may involve different strategies, such as controlling the exposure of waste materials to air and water,using appropriate covers or liners, or implementing treatments to enhance neutralization processes.

Overall, the assessment using ABA and NAG is crucial in the mining industry as it provides essential information to predict and prevent acid mine drainage, promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices that protect the environment and surrounding communities from the harmful effects of AMD.


BIODATA OF SPEAKER

Dr Suhaina Ismail
Lecturer at Universiti Sains Malaysia

Dr Suhaina Ismail is a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Sains Malaysia's School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering. She graduated from USM with a Bachelor's, Master's,and PhD in Mineral Resources Engineering. She is working in the field of mineral resources for more than 15 years.

She has extensive knowledge of geochemical analysis, extractive metals, and mine environments. Her areas of interest in research include mineral extraction, passive mine drainage water treatment system design, acid generation potential prediction, and mineral characterization. Suhaina actively participates in mining projects as a consultant, contributing insightful knowledge about geochemical analysis and water treatment design. She inspires professionals and students by promoting ethical mining practises and environmentally friendly methods thanks to her sincere passion for sustainable mining practises.