DETA mitigation strategies for Strathcona Mill

Glencore正考虑使用矿物处理剂DETA(二乙三胺)来改善位于安大略省萨德伯里附近的Strathcona Mill的工艺性能。DETA与镍和铜离子形成可溶的络合物，可能导致这些金属离子的浓度超过最终流出物中的允许值。该项目的目标是研究DETA与尾矿区水和固体的相互作用，并制定缓解策略。本研究将从文献综述开始，并建立一种检测溶液中DETA和DETA金属络合物的高效液相色谱方法。接下来，将进行地球化学模拟，以预测在各种条件下可能形成的DETA-金属络合物。还将开发吸附等温线，以确定DETA将在矿物固体上吸附多少，以及有多少将留在溶液中。结合地化模拟结果和吸附等温线，将为斯特拉斯科纳尾矿管理区创建一个模型，该模型将预测在各种情况下最终流出物中的DETA浓度。然后，将建立蒸渗仪测试，以研究吸附在矿物固体上的DETA在几年内的长期稳定性。最后，将开发一种活性生物降解工艺来破坏尾矿浆中的DETA和DETA化合物，无论是在溶液中还是在固体上。如果嘉能可能够安全地使用DETA，公司将能够提高镍回收率和精矿品位，这将带来很大的经济效益。最终开发一种有效的缓解技术，允许负责任地使用DETA，也将使其他矿业公司受益。

Glencore is considering the use of DETA (diethylenetriamine), a mineral processing reagent, to improve process performance in Strathcona Mill, located near Sudbury, Ontario. DETA forms soluble complexes with nickel and copper ions, and can cause the concentration of these metal ions to exceed the value permitted in the final effluent. The objectives of this project are to study the interaction of DETA with water and solids in the tailings area, and develop mitigation strategies. The research will begin with a literature review and the development of an HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) method for detection of DETA and DETA-metal complexes in solution. Next, geochemical modeling will be performed to predict the DETA-metal complexes that are likely to form under various conditions. Adsorption isotherms will also be developed to determine how much DETA will adsorb on mineral solids, and how much will remain in solution. Together, the geochemical modeling results and adsorption isotherms will be used to create a model for the Strathcona tailings management area that will predict the concentration of DETA in the final effluent under various scenarios. Lysimeter tests will then be set up to study the long-term stability of DETA adsorbed on the mineral solids over several years. Lastly, an active biodegradation process will be developed for the destruction of DETA and DETA compounds in tailings slurry, both in solution and on the solids. If Glencore can safely use DETA, the company will be able to improve nickel recovery and concentrate grade, which will have a large economic benefit. The ultimate development of an effective mitigation technology that permits the responsible use of DETA will benefit other mining companies as well.