Geochemical characterization of high pyritic mine waste by static testing methods: A case study from Western Australia
Mining activities have left a substantial legacy of environmental concerns, with one of the most pressing issues being managing high pyrite mine waste. Pyrite-containing mine waste poses a significant threat to surrounding ecosystems due to its potential to generate acid mine drainage (AMD) when exposed to air and water. Understanding the geochemical characteristics of these waste materials is paramount for effective environmental management and remediation efforts. The main goal of this research project is to conduct a comprehensive geochemical characterisation of high pyrite mine waste materials, employing acid-base accounting (ABA) tests to identify whether these samples are potentially acid-forming or non-potentially acid-forming. This research project aims to contribute significantly to understanding high pyrite mine waste and investigate innovative pathways for closure planning.
Biography
Greys is an environmental engineer completing the Master of Environmental Management at The University of Queensland. She is doing her master's thesis under supervision and with the collaboration of SMI researchers. Greys has five years of experience in environmental supervision and monitoring, community engagement, and regulatory compliance in the mining sector in Peru. Her work has been focused on environmental supervision and monitoring, community engagement, mine closure plans and regulatory compliance. Achievements: Peruvian Postgraduate Studies Scholarship, Dean's Decoration for Sem 1 Excellence, UQ Ventures Scholarship to explore the Singaporean Entrepreneurship hub, Summer Research Program Enrichment Badge.
Industry
Greys has worked in and participated in ensuring compliance with environmental legislation and project approvals, socio-environmental Impact Assessments and environmental monitoring supervision in mining operations and environmental consultories.
Collaborations
Greys collaborated on a Summer Research project at SMI that used mapping tools to identify local ESG pressures on existing and future Energy Transition Metals (ETM) projects based on company disclosures. She participated in industry challenges organised by UQ Ventures, focusing on addressing food waste issues.