Gesteinsabfälle

Gesteinsabfälle, also known as rock waste or spoil, refers to the material excavated and removed during mining, quarrying, and construction activities that is not of economic value. This includes overburden, which is the rock and soil overlying a mineral deposit, and waste rock from underground or open-pit mines. The volume of gesteinsabfälle can be substantial, often exceeding the quantity of extracted valuable minerals.

The management of gesteinsabfälle presents significant environmental challenges. These materials are typically stored in large piles or heaps, often referred to as spoil heaps or waste dumps. Their sheer size can alter landscapes and occupy considerable land area. Over time, gesteinsabfälle can weather and erode, potentially leading to the release of pollutants into soil and water. Acid mine drainage, a process where sulfide minerals in the waste react with air and water to produce sulfuric acid and dissolved metals, is a particular concern in some mining contexts.

Disposal methods aim to minimize environmental impact. This can involve careful site selection, engineered containment structures, and the implementation of rehabilitation measures. In some instances, gesteinsabfälle may be reprocessed to extract residual valuable minerals or repurposed for construction materials, such as aggregate for roads and backfill. Research continues into more sustainable and efficient methods for managing and utilizing these large volumes of rock waste.