Spatial distribution of iron oxidation in the aerobic cells of the Wheal Jane Pilot Passive Treatment Plant

As the concentration of iron approached 20 mg l−1, the rate of oxidation slowed considerably. This was probably due to be due to low pH levels caused by hydrolysis of Fe(III). With the introduction of passive pH control mechanisms, there was capacity to increase the volume of mine water treated by the ALD and LDS systems by 10 and 15 times, respectively, but it is uncertain as to whether or not other aspects of the passive treatment system would have sufficient capacity to deal with the increased volumes of mine water.