Environmental concerns mine drainage

One of the most serious environmental concerns associated with coal mining is the production of acid mine drainage. Coal mining exposes sulfur-bearing minerals to atmospheric oxygen and water. Pyrite is the principal source of acid production in coal spoils (Rose and Cravotta, 1998). Concerns associated with acidic coal-mine... 

Sulfur/Sulfide Oxidizing Bacteria This broad family of aerobic bacteria derives energy from the oxidation of sulfide or elemental sulfur to sulfate (Fig. 10.10). Some types of aerobes can oxidize sulfur to sulfuric acid, with pH values as low as one reported. These Thiobacillus strains are most commonly found in mineral deposits, and are largely responsible for acid mine drainage, which has become an environmental concern. They proliferate inside sewer lines and can cause rapid deterioration of concrete mains and the reinforcing steel therein. 

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