Treatment of Radionuclides from Mine Water

Abandoned mine sites, active mines and mines requiring dewatering are often required to meet discharge limits for radionuclides which meet drinking water standards.  Treatment for radionuclides to this level can be problematic but the handling and proper disposal of the treatment residuals looms as a larger concern especially when the mine is either preproduction or closed.  WRT has developed a unique solution for the treatment of radionuclides and other contaminants to not only meet discharge requirements but also provides for the residuals management.

WRT provides a solution for radionuclide treatment for applications which require either onsite or off-site disposal of the residuals.  The treatment of mine water potentially allows for the recovery of the contaminant and by meeting or exceeding drinking water standards may allow the water to be offered for purchase as well.  WRT is licensed by the NRC for operation of its uranium drinking water systems in the 16 non-agreement states, and WRT holds licenses in many other states for both radium and uranium drinking water treatment.  This allows the flexibility for WRT to operate under its own license if required.  WRT has over 50 systems in operation or construction.

This presentation details the radionuclide treatment process and the options for disposal or recovery of the treatment residuals and an overview of general license requirements.