Abstract |
Laboratory studies were conducted with activated carbon as a catalyst for oxidation of ferrous iron in coal mine water. Batch tests and continuous flow tests were conducted to delineate process variables influencing the catalytic oxidation and to determine the number and types of coal mine water to which this process may be successfully applied. The following variables influence the removal of iron with activated carbon: (1) amount and particle size of the carbon; (b) pH, flow rate, concentration of iron, temperature, and total ionic strength of the water; and (c) aeration rate. Adsorption as well as oxidation are the mechanisms involved in iron removal by this process. An evaluation of this process indicated technical feasibility which would permit acid mine drainage neutralization using an inexpensive reagent, such as limestone. (Author Modified Abstract) |