Phosphate Mining
Phosphate Rock (phosphorite) is mined and processed into various types of fertilizer
products primarily for commercial agricultural use. The US is one of the top three
producers of phosphate, with 75% being mined in Florida and North Carolina. During
the refinement process many by-products are produced, which must be managed and
contained to prevent impact on the surrounding environment. For every one pound
of market ready product, five pounds of undesired phosphygypsum slurry is produced.
This slurry along with millions of gallons of low-ph water must be properly managed,
stacked and contained in well-designed, heavily-regulated storage areas.
The flexibility and adaptability of geomembranes make them ideal for use in phosphate
and mining environments. These synthetic liners can be incorporated into a variety
of impoundment types. Geomembranes can also be used to rehab leaking or damaged
structures at a fraction of the cost of replacement.
Synthetic liners can be installed quickly and efficiently with a minimal amount
of equipment. As such, they provide a cost effective alternative to the equipment
intensive re-compacted clay liners traditionally used.
Technologies for the design and management of phosphate wastes are constantly evolving
and COMANCO Environmental Corporation is on the leading edge.
Contact us today to make your next project a successful one.