Geochemical Stability Assessment Workbook (Excel)
The Geochemical Stability Assessment Workbook (Excel) is a specialized spreadsheet-based engineering tool designed to evaluate the long-term acid rock drainage (ARD) and metal leaching (ML) potential of mine waste materials. It integrates geochemical data, mineralogical constraints, and kinetic/thermodynamic principles to classify material reactivity and predict environmental stability over closure timeframes. The workbook supports evidence-based decisions for waste characterization, disposal design, and progressive rehabilitation planning in accordance with international best practices (e.g., GARDGuide, MEND, ICMM).
📖 Overview
📑 Key Components
🎯 Applications
- ✓ Classifying waste rock and tailings for ARD/ML potential during feasibility and closure planning
- ✓ Supporting waste placement strategies (e.g., encapsulation, blending, water cover design)
- ✓ Generating technical inputs for Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) and Closure Reports
📐 Key Formulas
Net Acid Generation (NAG) pH
NAG_pH = 7.0 - log10([SO4^2−] / [Alk])
Empirical approximation estimating the equilibrium pH of a leachate based on measured sulphate concentration and alkalinity; used to flag potential acidity generation
Acid Generating Potential (AGP)
AGP (kg H2SO4/t) = 31.25 × %Sulphide-S
Calculates theoretical maximum acid generation assuming complete oxidation of sulphide minerals to sulphuric acid
Neutralization Potential (NP)
NP (kg CaCO3/t) = 100 × (%CaCO3 + 0.83 × %MgCO3 + 0.5 × %FeCO3)
Estimates total acid-neutralizing capacity from carbonate minerals, weighted by stoichiometric equivalence