Theory 069/Mining & Minerals
Drainage Is a Neutraliser Ratio
The claim
Acid mine drainage occurs when the ratio of acid-generating to neutralising minerals exceeds a threshold, not when pyrite is present.
01The mechanism
Carbonate minerals buffer acid; drainage appears only when generation outpaces buffering.
02Predictions
- P1Drainage should appear above the ratio.
- P2Pyrite-rich but carbonate-buffered waste should not drain.
03Refutation
Drainage tracking pyrite content would remove the buffering term.