Geophysical applications for mine waste site objectives

Geophysical methods are applicable for mine waste site investigations primarily for site characterization, monitoring, and groundwater objectives. Several geophysical methods can be utilized to map mine waste pile characteristics, map near surface geology, understand groundwater characteristics, and locate groundwater discharges into surface water features. This presentation will outline the physical properties measured by various geophysical field assessments including mapping, monitoring, and site characterization. Presentation content will broadly explain select methods such as electromagnetic induction, electrical resistivity, thermal imaging, as well as others. Field examples will include methods and tools to aid the site investigator in developing a better understanding of site dynamics and in guiding future decisions such as well placement, monitoring or remediation systems.

Impact/Purpose

The environmental or health problem addressed in the study is mine waste impacted land, groundwater, and surface water bodies. This scientific presentation highlights techniques used on the surface or near surface of the earth to measure and monitor the physical property changes which occur or that have changed due to the presence and/or impact of mine waste. The techniques presented will give site investigators new tools and methods to understand the impacts of mine waste to the subsurface geology and hydrogeology. This presentation would be interesting for regional partners and site investigators working on mine waste impacted sites. This presentation abstract includes techniques to protect human health and the environment from mine waste alterations to the natural environment which include metal mine constituent transport and pH.

Citation

Werkema, D. Geophysical applications for mine waste site objectives. 2019 CLU-IN Webinar Series: ORD Mining and Mineral Processing Site - Site Characterization, Corvallis, OR, October 02, 2019.