Aqueous Geochemistry​

The mining industry generates liquid effluents and tailings that can have a high potential for releasing chemical loads. The physical and chemical processes that lead to environmental contamination are varied and complex. Proper management of effluents and contaminated areas in the context of mining requires in-depth technical analysis of the relevant chemical reactions and flow systems.

Water Services and Technologies‘ hydrogeochemistry department is made up of a multidisciplinary team that values high technical rigor in its analyses. We work on duly based diagnoses and predictive analyses, enabling us to achieve proactive solutions for mining companies

Water Services and Technologies develops studies for various commodities. We evaluate environmental and operational aspects in an integrated manner, such as: geology, processing routes, operational water balance, mineralogical composition of tailings and waste rock, pile and dam designs, flow conditions, effluent treatment strategies and self-depuration in receiving bodies.

We work in partnership with commercial and academic laboratories to establish the most appropriate sampling and analytical methodology for each case. We strive to offer integrated solutions in conjunction with the company’s other areas of activity.

Some of our services:

• Diagnosis and predictive analysis of mine drainage and metal leaching
• Management of contaminated areas
• Effluent self-depuration studies
• Effluent treatment
• Background and baseline studies
• Critical analysis of laboratory results
• Determination of monitoring programs and characterization of tailings
• Advanced predictive numerical modeling of chemical reactions (thermodynamics and kinetics)
• Advanced numerical modeling of contaminant transport (FEFLOW + PHREEQC)