Validation of internationally-recognised environmental tests will help establish a framework for converting the by-products of Western Australia’s mineral processing industry from unused stockpiles into a valuable industrial resource.
This research, part of a major collaboration between the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia, (MRIWA), ChemCentre and sponsors Alcoa of Australia, Iluka Resources, and Aroona Alliance, sought to validate the internationally-recognised LEAF (Leaching Environmental Assessment Framework) methodology for use under Western Australian conditions.
By providing the means to simulate the long-term interactions of mineral processing residues and industrial by-products with local soils and climate, the work completed by Dr Silvia Black and her team could help local industry transform large volumes of mineral by-products produced in Western Australia every year into valuable raw materials for use in local construction and landfill.
“We have developed an initial database of Western Australian soils and industry by-products that will allow LEAF to predict the impact that a proposed use might have on the local environment,” Dr Black explained.
“This new understanding could help form the basis of a robust regulatory framework governing the safe use of local industrial by-products in construction and related applications.”
“ChemCentre has now established the capability and expertise to provide full LEAF service to industry and government agencies in Western Australia, including accredited testing, data interpretation, modelling, field studies and consultant advice.”
Access the technical report.
Find out more about LEAF services available at ChemCentre.
