NSERC Industrial Research Chair in Fate and Transport of Reactive Solutes Diffusion-Dominated Systems

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This application proposes a 4th term for an NSERC-Industrial Research Chair in Aqueous and Environmental Geochemistry. The proposed research builds upon work conducted by the applicant in the current and past IRC terms. Phase I research focuses on geochemical reactions and solute transport in clay-rich aquitards, with objectives to 1) define spatial variability in water and solute transport in clay-rich aquitard systems; 2) characterize solute transport mechanisms in the Williston Basin using tracer profiles; 3) characterize solute transport mechanisms in the Great Artesian Basin using tracer profiles; 4) assess the role of faulting on solute transport in the Williston Basin; and 5) assess long-term reactive transport of solutes in thick claystone. Phase I research will provide better understanding of the migration of water, salts, and contaminants in aquitards. This research will be of value for determining the extent of contaminant transport in near surface aquitards and the origin of the inflows into existing and proposed potash mines and a proposed open pit diamond mine in Saskatchewan. Moreover, the findings will continue to serve as a benchmark for the use of claystone host rocks as viable geological repositories for radioactive or toxic chemical wastes both in Canada and internationally. Phase II research focuses on geochemical reactions and solute transport in uranium mill tailings, with objectives to 1) determine controls exerted by Ca-As minerals on As concentrations in tailings; 2) define the impact of Eh and pH interfacial gradients on the stability of elements of concern (EOCs); 3) define and detail the controls on EOC source terms; 4) identify alternate mill methods to produce tailings that reduce long-term EOC source terms; and 5) synthesize findings of tailings research. Phase II research will assist one of the industrial partners (Cameco) in ensuring protection of the environment by planning for waste disposal, in operating the waste disposal facilities, and in obtaining and retaining regulatory approval for mine sites. The research will ultimately set the path for the development of new mines and hydrometallurgical mill processes as they progress from feasibility to full production.