Assessment of phosphogypsum utilisation in underground hard coal mines in Poland

Abstract

Phosphogypsum is a by-product obtained during the production of phosphoric acid. Over 100 million tons of phosphogypsum are produced annually world-wide, most of which is dumped. In countries of the European Union, dumping of waste products is a last resort and not the recommended means of disposal.

For years, ecologically and economically sound means have been sought for the use of bulk amounts of phosphogypsum, including in farming, the construction industry and in the production of building materials. This study provides an analysis of the potential for use of phosphogypsum in hard coal mining for: (i) precipitation of radioactive components from underground mine waters; (ii) suppression of coal dust explosions; and (iii) filling of underground mine workings.

In addition, the study presents an overview of the following areas: (i) a review of methods of phosphogypsum utilisation; (ii) an analysis of Polish laws regulating the application of phosphogypsum in underground mines; and (iii) an analysis of hard coal mining from the point of view of the potential use of phosphogypsum.

Keywords

PHOSPHOGYPSUM UTILISATION HARD COAL MINING POLAND

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