Flooding of the Schlema-Alberoda uranium mines : aspects of the prognosis regarding the uranium concentration in flood waters

Abstract

The main points of interest of this paper are several uranium mines in Western Saxony which have been flooded or are in a flooded state. Particularly significant are the large Schlema-Alberoda uranium mine in the vicinity of the city of Aue, and the small Pöhla mine on the border with the Czech Republic. Both mines are in the final stage of remediation by WISMUT GmbH. Uranium is the only main pollutant that is emitted by WISMUT GmbH into the Zwickauer Mulde River. The main sources are the Schlema-Alberoda mine and the largest mining waste rock pile at the development site. WISMUT was thus prompted by the authorities to erect and operate a special water treatment facility for the seepage water from the aforementioned largest waste rock pile in order to remove uranium. The maximum level of residual uranium concentration tolerated in flood water and seepage water is currently 0.5 mg/l, for which the relevant authorities are considering an appropriate reduction. All these facts underline the importance of uranium in the remediation of the Schlema-Alberoda mining area.