심해 채광 선광 잔재물 정화를 위해 어떤 기술이 효율적으로 적용될 수 있을까?

Abstract

Remediation technologies for deep-sea mining tailings were mainly evaluated in this research in order to derive candidate technologies for the future development of practical remediation technologies required for commercial deep-sea mining to respond to strengthening of international marine environmental standards. Polymetallic nodules which were collected at the Clarion-Clipper zone in the Pacific Ocean consist of mostly inorganic materials such as manganese (Mn, 61.0%), silicate (Si 10.3%), iron (Fe, 5.57%), heavy metals and other tiny elements. It is assumed that deep-sea mining tailings may be slurry mixed with fine solid materials having a particle diameter of several tens to 100 μm which are originated from crushing of polymetallic nodules and liquid substance produced from selection process on vessel connected with lifting and collecting procedures. Fine particles as well as harmful components eluting from deep-sea mining tailings may adversely affect marine environment including marine life. A new modular remediation treatment system in which physical separation and chemical treatment are repeated several times in a single treatment flow should have to develop in order to overcome various limitations (space, energy, process water, vibration, corrosion, weather conditions, etc.) at sea area.