Abstract
In pyritic environments, the bacteria Thiobacillus ferrooxidans catalyze acid formation by increasing the oxidation rate of pyrite by a factor of one million. This acid solubilizes metals and pollutes adjacent streams and lands. Bactericide sprays during mining and waste disposal operations attack the source of the problem by preventing acid formation and metals solubilization. Used in conjunction with current water treatment systems, bactericides can dramatically reduce operating costs. Controlled release bactericides contribute t,o successful reclamation by providing assurance against revegetation failure and post-reclamation water quality problems that can necessitate perpetual water treatment. While inhibiting T. ferrooxidans, these organic compounds aid in the establishment of beneficial heterotrophic bacteria which support vegetation. These conditions continue to persist after the bactericide is depleted from the controlled release system. Case Studies I and I1 show that bactericides inhibit acid generation during hard rock and coal mining operations and they are cost effective. Case Studies I11 and IV illustrate the improvement in water quality and vegetation after reclamation when controlled release bactericides were used. Economic analyses show cost benefits are achieved when controlled-release bactericides are part of the reclamation plan.
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