ViroMineTM Technology - Introduction
ViroMineTM Technology is a total treatment solution incorporating a range of toxicologically safe formulations, which when added to minewaters immobilise heavy metals.
The physical properties of ViroMineTM reagents are unique in that they have a high charge-to-mass ratio and a high surface area-to-mass ratio. They are composed of up to 80% of solid grains 10µm or less in dry powder or slurry, are highly insoluble and non-dispersive in water, displaying rapid settling characteristics and producing a stable sediment when applied directly to water.
The process of immobilisation permanently binds the metals in a non bio-available, chemically inert form, limiting the potential for the translocation of bound metals into the surrounding environment or their absorption by plants or animals. Binding of ferrous ions is rapid, followed by the co-absorption of other soluble heavy metals. The mechanism of iron absorption is accretion, where loadings of up to 150g Fe per kg media can be achieved. The simultaneous absorption of other heavy metals of up to 70g per kg media has also been demonstrated.
ViroMineTM reagents have excellent acid neutralisation properties (neutralisation capacity of up to 14 moles/kg) allowing maintenance of near neutral pH in the application area.
