Development of functionalized clay-based reactive media for salinity mitigation of potash mine wastes and for reuse as remedial agents

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One-third of the world's demand for potash is being supplied by Saskatchewan and the potash mining industry is a core element driving the rapid economic development in Saskatchewan and Canada. At the same time, however, potash mining operations are generating a substantial volume of mine wastes. Strategies for the responsible management and remediation of potash mining-impacted environments have been in high demand in the industry, especially considering intensified mining activity, elevated water consumption rates, and potential environmental risks posed to groundwater, agricultural soils, and ecological receptors. Drs. Won Jae Chang (PI), Joyce McBeth (co-PI) and James Dyne (collaborator) propose novel salinity mitigation research that mainly focuses on developing engineered clay-based adsorbents for simultaneously remediating both sodium and chloride in potash brine-impacted groundwater. The developed adsorbents will be efficient, cost-effective, and versatile remedial agents, and will advance remediation engineering strategies for potash mining sites.Agrium, Mosaic and PotashCorp have recognized the significant benefits of the proposed engineered clay-based adsorbents through collaborative research and expert review process. The three major potash mining companies will support the research through the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII). Up-to-date knowledge, cutting-edge geoenvironmental engineering research tools, microbial and chemical analyses, and synchrotron-based microscopy analyses will be combined to develop innovative solutions for the management and remediation of potash brine-impacted sites. The research is directly related to current potash mining practices, which puts it on the frontline of sustainable development and environmental protection in Canada.