A biochemical reactor (BCR) is an engineered treatment system that uses an organic substrate to drive microbial and chemical reactions to reduce concentration of metals, acidity, and sulfate in mining-influenced water (MIW). Mining-influenced water includes wastewater generated by ore extraction and processing, as well as mine drainage and tailings runoff. Mining-influenced water handling, storage, and disposal is a major environmental problem in mining districts throughout the world.
The Biochemical Reactors for Treating Mining-Influenced Water (BCR-1, 2013) guidance explains how biochemical reactors can treat mining-influenced water. It includes a decision tree to help determine whether biochemical reactor treatment is appropriate for a site, as well as information on testing, design, construction, operation, and monitoring. Case studies demonstrate how biochemical reactors perform under different site conditions and contaminant mixtures.
Topic(s): Biochemical Reactor, Bioreactors, Bioremediation, Groundwater, Mining, Mining Waste, Remediation Technologies
