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Project Details

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Project Information Sheet

Optimization of bioreactor cell design for treating low-flow acid mine drainage in the Midwest: Model development and demonstration

Funding Source:	U.S. Office of Surface Mining
Status:	active — Definition of status type
Project Director:	Tracy Branam

Issue

Acid mine drainage (AMD) has long been known for its detrimental effect on the environment. Many AMD sources are currently not treatable because of some constraining factor that limits the effectiveness of available methods. In particular, low-flow, high dissolved-solids acidic seeps have proven to be resistant to successful mitigation.

Objective

This project will test and demonstrate sulfate-reducing bioreactor cell (SRBC) technology on low-flow, metal-rich acid seeps in the Midwest. A predictive model capable of assisting engineers in designing SRBCs for AMD sources throughout the Midwest will be developed.

Approach

This research will design and test an SRBC method which simultaneously reduces sulfate, removes metals, neutralizes acid, and generates excess alkalinity using a limestone-buffered organic substrate. We will install and monitor the performance of a field-scale test SRBC and collect sufficient hydrologic and water-quality data to document the environmental impact and to build a predictive model.

Benefits

This project will provide the information needed to design more effective AMD abatement systems for Indiana and the Midwest. Application of this improved technology will remediate environmental damage such as clogged streams and polluted water caused by acid mine drainage.

Locations Affected:

Clay Daviess Dubois

Gibson Greene Knox

Martin Posey Spencer

Sullivan Vanderburgh Vigo

Warrick

Indiana House Districts Affected:

none

Indiana Senate Districts Affected:

none

Indiana Congressional Districts Affected:

Information Updated January 31, 2007

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