Current Research Into The Potential For Utilization Of Mine Waste

The disposal of mining waste material in a structurally and environmentally safe manner has become an increasingly important problem. Whenever possible, potential use or reuse methods should be considered. This paper describes current research on four potential waste utilization techniques, namely (1) high-volume end uses for phosphogypsum waste, (2) underground backfilling with tailings or coal refuse, (3) use of mill tailings as a surface backfill, and (4) recovery of energy from controlled burnout of abandoned coal mine fires or coal refuse banks.