Tracing copper from source to sink during acid mine drainage at Røros Kobberverk, E Norway

Project title

Tracing copper from source to sink during acid mine drainage at Røros Kobberverk, E Norway 

Supervisors

Desiree Roerdink and Andreas Beinlich

Project description

This project will investigate copper from source to sink during acid mine drainage in the historical Røros copper mines in Eastern Norway using paired fluid and solid samples from two different settings: the chalcopyrite-rich Olavsgruva and the sphalerite-rich Storwartz gruva waste piles. The project will focus on analysis of all samples for bulk geochemistry and Cu isotopes, as well as mineralogical analyses of solid samples (optical microscope, Raman, SEM). Acid mine drainage (AMD) occurs when sulfide ore minerals become exposed to oxygen during mining activities. The resulting dilute solutions of sulfuric acid (pH 1-3) usually contain high amounts of dissolved metals, such as copper, zinc and lead, that pose significant risks to the environment and human health. As such, mining sites typically employ remediation techniques that involve pH neutralization, adsorption or precipitation of metals from contaminated waters, or covering of mine waste piles. Such remediation strategies are restricted at the historical Røros copper mines due to their UNESCO World Heritage Site status that prevents substantial modifications of the landscape.