Reference no: EM133678953

Professional Engineering Research Design Project

Project

Literature review on "Assessing the Cost-Effectiveness of Advanced Treatment Methods for Wastewater from Mineral Processing Plants".

Abstract: Study examines the cost effectiveness and environmental impact of treatment methods, for reducing substances in wastewater from mineral processing. It focuses on arsenic, iron and cyanide as pollutants drawing insights from research by (Acheampong et al., 2013) and (Adams & Lloyd, 2008). These studies emphasize the economic challenges posed by these contaminants. The goal is to conduct a comparison of treatment approaches to develop strategies that meet both standards and financial feasibility. By building on the findings of (Acheampong et al., 2013) and (Adams & Lloyd, 2008) this project aims to contribute to discussions on wastewater management, in mineral processing sectors.

Using the standards this approach helps us really understand what each treatment can do well and where it falls short directly addressing gaps in our knowledge.

Research Review; We will start by looking at lots of research thats already been done on wastewater treatments following the example set by (Acheampong et al., 2013; Adams & Lloyd, 2008). This review will bring together what we know about the chemical traits of mining wastewater and how different methods are used to clean it up.

Data Examination; We'll then analyze data on how treatments work, how much they cost to run and if they meet rules from the sources mentioned. This way of working is like what (Adams & Lloyd, 2008) did when studying how technologies, for cyanide recovery affect finances and nature.

We will use tools and software to analyze the data we have collected allowing us to compare different treatment methods directly.

When it comes to evaluating case studies we will follow the example set by (Acheampong et al., 2013). These case studies focus on mineral processing plants that have implemented wastewater treatment technologies. They provide insights, into how different treatment strategies work in real world scenarios giving us a grounded perspective on both concepts and practical outcomes.
The methodology and methods chosen for this research project are well suited because they provide an evidence based approach to assessing wastewater treatment technologies. By combining literature reviews, data analysis and case study evaluations our research delves into the complexities and obstacles faced in treating wastewater at mineral processing plants. This approach offers a detailed understanding of the subject matter. Our methodology is designed to address gaps, in existing literature. Is supported by the works of (Acheampong et al., 2013) (Adams & Lloyd, 2008)

Expected outcomes:

Rely on the analyses provided by (Acheampong et al., 2013). (Adams & Lloyd, 2008) providing a nuanced view of the state of wastewater treatment approaches.

Comparison Analysis Framework; The creation of a framework for comparing the expenses, environmental effects and treatment efficiencies of different wastewater treatment techniques. Modeled after (Adams & Lloyd, 2008) this framework will act as a tool for industry stakeholders, in mineral processing to make choices regarding the adoption and utilization of treatment technologies.
Cost Benefit Analysis Approach; An framework that evaluates the costs associated with the adoption of technologies, for treating wastewater as discussed by (Adams & Lloyd, 2008). This model aims to provide a basis for assessing the feasibility of different treatment methods considering the potential for recovering and reusing resources.
Guidelines for Best Practices; Building upon the insights gained from comparing and analyzing costs the study will culminate in a set of recommendations outlining practices in wastewater treatment specifically tailored to the mineral processing sector. These recommendations seek to address gaps identified by (Acheampong et al., 2013)promoting cost efficient treatment solutions.

Implications on Policies and Regulations; Insights into how policies and regulationsre impacted by the adoption of wastewater treatment technologies. By drawing on the environmental compliance issues raised by (Acheampong et al., 2013) this research will offer guidance on aligning treatment practices with laws and standards.

Through achieving these objectives this study is poised to bridge existing gaps in literature concerning understanding both economic and environmental dimensions within wastewater treatment at mineral processing plants. The provision of a comprehensive assessment report alongside tools and recommendations will solidify the projects goals while making contributions to environmental engineering practices, in mineral processing(Rathi & Kumar, 2021).

Resources:

levels pre and post treatment using spectrophotometry atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) or coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP MS).

Evaluating the cost effectiveness of each treatment method by considering expenses like usage and energy consumption alongside their efficacy in removing contaminants. Performing treatments under conditions to determine the efficient operational parameters. Calculating the cost per volume of treated water by factoring in expenses, for reagents, energy consumption and any specialized equipment needed for each method(Bhojwani et al., 2019).
Exploring New Techniques, for Treating Water
Goal: To study how treatment methods, such as membrane filtration and electrocoagulation can improve the removal of metals and cyanide from water.
Approach: Running small scale tests to compare methods with these technologies in the same conditions. Evaluating their effectiveness, ease of operation and ability to recover metals.

Analyzing Environmental Impact from Treatment Residues
Goal : Understanding how different wastewater treatments affect the environment through their by products.
Approach : Examining the composition and potential toxicity of sludge and volatile organic compounds produced during treatment. This might include testing leachates for sludge and using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC MS) for VOC analysis.

Assessing term Effectiveness and Scalability
Goal: Investigating how promising treatment techniques perform over time and if they can be scaled up effectively.
Approach: Running experiments, on selected processes to gauge their durability, long term efficiency and scalability potential. This could involve testing in a pilot plant setting.The trials aim to offer, in depth understanding of how methods, for treating wastewater perform in terms of efficiency, expenses and environmental consequences within mineral processing facilities helping determine the suited technologies to use.