Objectif "Acid Mine drainage (AMD) is the primary environmental threat connected to the mining industry leading to acute environmental pollution. Copper, a common contaminant in AMD, will be the focus of attention. If mobilized and discharged into the environment its ecotoxicity can have devastating effects on many receptors. A crucial aspect of addressing this pollution in a sustainable manner is a clear understanding of the biogeochemistry of pollutant generation and attenuation. I propose a multi-disciplinary study covering cutting edge metal isotope research in combination with biogeochemical, mineralogical and microbiological investigations paired with a quantitative assessment through reactive transport modelling to investigate AMD. With the advent of MC-ICP-MS we now are able to enhance biogeochemical studies on AMD with this powerful new analytical tool. Specific objectives include: 1) field studies on tailings and a passive mine treatment system to identify the factors controlling the release and attenuation of Cu and the extent of associated Cu fractionation, 2) laboratory studies to Cu bearing tailings to determine the degree of Cu-isotope fractionation associated with specific Cu mobilization and attenuation processes, these studies will be conducted in combination with mineralogical, microbiological and geochemical studies to thoroughly understand the reaction mechanisms, and 3) the integration of field and lab results within the rigorous quantitative framework provided by reactive transport modelling. The project will be developed at two internationally-renowned research institutions (Waterloo U., Canada, yr1+2; Newcastle U., UK, yr3) that will boost my career development. The project is at the forefront of a rapidly emerging new research field of non-traditional isotopes. The research will clarify processes that to date we have been unable to address but will help to safeguard natural resources in agreement with the FP7 Environment Programme." Champ scientifique engineering and technologyenvironmental engineeringmining and mineral processingnatural sciencesearth and related environmental sciencesenvironmental sciencespollutionnatural sciencesearth and related environmental sciencesgeochemistrybiogeochemistry Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Thème(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IOF - Marie Curie Action: "International Outgoing Fellowships for Career Development" Appel à propositions FP7-PEOPLE-2010-IOF Voir d’autres projets de cet appel Régime de financement MC-IOF - International Outgoing Fellowships (IOF) Coordinateur UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Contribution de l’UE € 225 911,20 Adresse KINGS GATE NE1 7RU Newcastle Upon Tyne Royaume-Uni Voir sur la carte Région North East (England) Northumberland and Tyne and Wear Tyneside Type d’activité Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Contact administratif Nicola Dolman (Ms.) Liens Contacter l’organisation Opens in new window Site web Opens in new window Coût total Aucune donnée
