Mining in Alaska affects many fresh-water sources because water is needed for processing ore. Water pollution occurs when heavy metals, such as arsenic, nickel, lead, cadmium, cobalt, copper, silver, and zinc, contained in excavated rock, encounter water. Exposure to contaminated water is harmful to humans and the environment as heavy metals are not biodegradable and accumulate in living tissues.
This study is investigating the use of graphene, a novel but promising nanomaterial, as a method to remove heavy metals from contaminated water discharged during mine operations. Effective water treatment options are essential to ensure the availability of clean drinking water resources in communities located near mines and will reduce the footprint of mining operations, promoting sustainable mining in Alaska.
