Coal Derived Humic Products As Novel Adsorbents For Water Remediation

WestMET Group Canada operates four coal mines in Alberta. Humalite, naturally occurring from organic matter decomposition, is produced in large quantities during mining. Humic products from coal wastes may be more suitable than other sources due to high humic content, rawmaterial availability, low cost, application ease, and reduced coal waste accumulation and environmental impact. Westmoreland supported research demonstrated its humalite potential for agriculture. Water and soil remediation provide a growing market for humic products. Returning disturbed land and water to productive use often requires contaminant removal. Metals of concern to our water supply and aquatic ecosystems are arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, nickel, selenium and zinc. Thesemetals are toxic, persistent, and/or difficult to remove. Coal derived humic products are not well researched; others are metal remediators due to high exchangeable functional groups and porous structures. Factors influencing removal efficiencies include metal concentration, application rate, contact time and presence of other elements. Knowledge gaps must be addressed to realize the full potential and widespread application of these products. This research will facilitate development of a value added product by coal mines, reuse of onsite materials, a proven water treatment, and income from marketing to other industries.

Faculty Supervisor:

M Anne Naeth

Student:

Partner:

WestMET ERS

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Sustainability & the Environment; Mining; Environmental Science and Technology

University:

University of Alberta

Program: