Evaluation of Acid Mine Drainage Mitigation at Kimheden Copper Mine, Northern Sweden
This study evaluates reclamation efforts at the Kimheden copper mine in Västerbotten, Sweden, focusing on acid mine drainage (AMD) prevention. Reclamation involved backfilling open pits with waste rock and applying a dry cover starting in 1996. Research conducted between 2009 and 2014 assessed the effectiveness of these measures on controlling copper and zinc concentrations in drainage water. Findings indicate that while there were reductions in metal concentrations, water quality remains unsatisfactory, suggesting ongoing sulphide oxidation despite the cover. Potential oxygen transport pathways were identified, and strategies for improvement are discussed.
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Reclamation at the Kimheden copper mine in northern Sweden included backfilling two open pits with waste rock and applying a dry cover in 1996 to mitigate acid mine drainage (AMD). Research from 2009 to 2014 assessed the impact on copper and zinc concentrations in drainage.
Results indicated a reduction in metal levels but persistent unsatisfactory water quality, suggesting ongoing sulphide oxidation. Hydrogeochemical modeling revealed that oxygen consumption rates exceed diffusion rates through the dry cover, and geophysical surveys identified sources of oxygen ingress. Recommendations for improving AMD prevention strategies are proposed based on these findings.
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