Evaluating Remedial Alternatives for an Acid Mine Drainage Stream: A Model Post Audit

Robert L. Runkel*†, Briant A. Kimball‡, Katherine Walton-Day§, Philip L. Verplanck, and Robert E. Broshears
† U.S. Geological Survey, Mail Stop 415, Denver Federal Center, Denver, Colorado, 80225, United States
‡ U.S. Geological Survey, 2329 West Orton Circle, West Valley City, Utah, 84119, United States
§ U.S. Geological Survey, Mail Stop 415, Denver Federal Center, Denver, Colorado, 80225, United States
U.S. Geological Survey, Mail Stop 973, Denver Federal Center, Denver, Colorado, 80225, United States
U.S. Geological Survey (currently retired); 31 S. Indiana Place, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
Environ. Sci. Technol., 2012, 46 (1), pp 340–347
DOI: 10.1021/es2038504
Publication Date (Web): November 10, 2011
Copyright This article not subject to U.S. Copyright. Published 2011 by the American Chemical Society
*Phone: 303/541-3013. Fax: 303/541-3084. E-mail: runkel@usgs.gov.
Water

Abstract

Abstract Image

A post audit for a reactive transport model used to evaluate acid mine drainage treatment systems is presented herein. The post audit is based on a paired synoptic approach in which hydrogeochemical data are collected at low (existing conditions) and elevated (following treatment) pH. Data obtained under existing, low-pH conditions are used for calibration, and the resultant model is used to predict metal concentrations observed following treatment. Predictions for Al, As, Fe, H+, and Pb accurately reproduce the observed reduction in dissolved concentrations afforded by the treatment system, and the information provided in regard to standard attainment is also accurate (predictions correctly indicate attainment or nonattainment of water quality standards for 19 of 25 cases). Errors associated with Cd, Cu, and Zn are attributed to misspecification of sorbent mass (precipitated Fe). In addition to these specific results, the post audit provides insight in regard to calibration and sensitivity analysis that is contrary to conventional wisdom. Steps taken during the calibration process to improve simulations of As sorption were ultimately detrimental to the predictive results, for example, and the sensitivity analysis failed to bracket observed metal concentrations.

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History

  • Published In Issue January 03, 2012
  • Article ASAPDecember 14, 2011
  • Just Accepted ManuscriptNovember 10, 2011
  • Received: July 29, 2011
    Accepted: November 10, 2011
    Revised: November 08, 2011

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