Geochemistry testing, analysis and reporting

SGME was engaged to undertake geochemical testing and analysis of waste rock, and to prepare a report that summarised findings. The mine is located near Pine Creek, Northern Territory, approximately (~) 16 kilometres east-south-east of Burrundie and ~200 kilometres south of Darwin. Ore was mined from open pits using drill, blast, excavator and truck methods, then crushed and transported to a rail siding for loading onto trains bound for Darwin Port. The mine is currently in care and maintenance.

The mine faces several critical challenges in managing waste rock inventories including the risk of acid mine drainage (AMD), neutral mine drainage (NMD) and the presence of unexpected non-acid forming (NAF) waste rock. Rehabilitation efforts have been impacted by knowledge gaps in geochemical and hydrogeological properties of waste rock, limited expertise and experience, incomplete waste rock inventories and inaccurate models for potentially acid-forming (PAF) waste rock cells. This highlights the need for an optimised closure plan and design.

SGME’s team of scientists and engineers implemented a holistic and systematic approach to address the numerous challenges associated with waste rock management. The solution involved several key steps and strategies to effectively manage PAF and NAF waste rock with the aims of long-term environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.

We conducted extensive geochemical testing and analysis to determine the composition and potential risks associated with PAF waste rock. Detailed geochemical data was collected to inform the development of accurate models for predicting AMD and NMD.
A robust inventory management system was developed and implemented to track and manage waste rock volumes while ensuring appropriate segregation and treatment. Real-time tracking was used and waste rock inventories were updated to facilitate informed decision-making and efficient resource allocation.

Working in close collaboration with our client, industry experts, stakeholders and regulatory authorities was essential to optimise closure design and ensure that final landform designs were environmentally sound and met all regulatory requirements. SGME integrated innovative design solutions to create stable, self-sustaining landforms that minimised environmental impacts and facilitated long-term ecosystem recovery. We also applied industry best practices and integrated advanced technologies to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of waste rock management.

SGME established a comprehensive data management system to centralise all information relating to waste rock management, making data easily accessible and accurate. Further, regular monitoring and evaluation protocols were implemented to identify any emerging issues.

SGME’s comprehensive solution for waste rock management involved detailed geochemical testing, systematic inventory management, optimised closure design and robust data management. Continuous monitoring, integration of best practices and technologies, further investigations, and proactive regulator and stakeholder engagement were key components. This holistic approach ensured effective management of waste rock, minimised environmental impacts and achieved sustainable, long-term solutions that create enduring value.

Applying our research, our experience and industry best practices enables SGME to play a significant role in solving geochemistry-based problems in the mining industry. Our in-depth understanding of the distribution of chemical elements in rocks and minerals, and absorption of these elements into soil and water, enable our clients to mitigate negative impacts on the environment. This underscores our unwavering stewardship and dedication to sustainable practices, and our goal of creating enduring value for the future.