CHED 432 |
| Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a problem associated with the mining of coal and metal sulfide ores. In order to illustrate the chemical and physical processes involved in the migration of AMD in the environment, we are developing an undergraduate environmental/analytical laboratory-based experiment designed where students can observe these processes firsthand under controlled laboratory conditions. In this experiment, an AMD simulant is titrated with a strong base and controlling variable, Eh and pH, are measured. As the system evolves, solid and solution samples are collected and analyzed XRF and ICPMS. The data is compiled and the chemical evolution of the laboratory system is subsequently compared to actual field observations. This experiment illustrates the sequence of pH- and Eh-dependent precipitation of Fe and Al oxyhydroxides characteristic of AMD systems and while offering experience with modern analytical techniques used in the study of the environment. |
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Undergraduate Research Poster Session: Chemical Education
11:00 AM-1:00 PM, Monday, March 26, 2007 Hyatt Regency Chicago -- Riverside Center, Poster
Division of Chemical Education |