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By S. A. Braley

DRAINAGE of acid mine water into surface streams of coal mining areas is one of the most serious problems of stream pollution, since there is no known method that completely prevents its forming and no economically feasible treatment after it has formed. The mine acid problem differs from other pollution hazards because acid production does not end with cessation of mining but actually becomes more evident when pumping is stopped. The acid problem in the Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky bituminous coal areas of the U. S. began with the first operation in 1761, and the volume of acid discharge today is largely the cumulative result of years of mining. Provided they lie above the drainage area, the oldest mines, now long abandoned, are almost without exception producing acid in the same manner as those now operating or recently abandoned. It is well to consider some of the many procedures that have been used to determine the composition

Jan 1, 1957

PERSONAL (Members are urged to send in for this column any notes of interest concerning themselves or their fellow-members.) Members and guests who registered at Institute headquarters during the period Oct. 10 to Nov. 10, 1914: Jintaro Kojima, Ashio, Japan. E. R. Hinckley, Seoul, Korea. J. Homer Stover, Trenton, N. J. S. A. Taylor, Pittsburgh, Pa. Kirby Thomas, New York, N. Y. Lawrence Addicks, Douglas, Ariz. Keijiro Nishio, Tokyo, Japan. Noel Cunningham, Bethlehem, Pa. Alexander K. Hamilton, Chicago, Ill. E. C. Vigeon, London, England. Harold N. Lawrie, Portland, Ore. S. E. Fairchild, Jr., Philadelphia, Pa. C. Spence Thomas, Cardiff, Wales. W. C. Schmidt, Jr., New York, N. Y. Henry Tackmann, New York, N. Y. Kenneth C. Browne, New York, N. Y. Dr. David T. Day has resigned his position with the U. S. Geological Survey and opened an office at 1331 F Street, N. W., Washington, D. C., for practice as a consulting engineer.

Jan 12, 1914

POSITIONS VACANT (Under this heading will be published notes sent to the Secretary of the Institute by members or other persons.) Wanted for a mill on the Ivory Coast of Africa an experienced amalgamator and millman. Salary, $160 to $200 per month. No. 18. ENGINEERS AVAILABLE (Under this heading will be published notes sent to the Secretary of the Institute by members or other persons.) Chemist-metallurgist of broad technical training, university graduate, with experience in chemical and metallurgical research work, desires position, preferably in the East. Has successful past that stands investigation. No. 73. Member, mining and metallurgical engineer; thorough technical training, Ph.D., Columbia University, aged 39, married, with-an-extensive experience in smelting, mining, and economic geological work in U. S., Mexico, and South America, desires position as assistant to the Manager or Superintendent, or as a director of experimental and research work, with a reliable mining or metallurgical company. The West, Mexico, or South America preferred. No. 98.

Jan 6, 1914

(Members are urged to send in for this column any notes of interest concerning themselves or their fellow-members.) Members and guests who registered at Institute headquarters during the period Nov. 10 to Dec. 10, 1915: F. Lynwood Garrison, Philadelphia, Pa. E. Fleming l'engle, Costa Rico, C. A. William J. Lakeland, Burma, India. Fred Maccoy, El Oro, Mexico. Dwight E. Woodbridge, Duluth, Minn. 0. N. Scott, Toronto, Ont., Canada. Chester A. Fulton, Yonkers, N. Y. K. P. Swenson, Tokyo, Japan. Willet G. Miller, Toronto, Canada. - H. L. Mead, New York, N. Y. L. G. Huntley, Pittsburgh, Pa. E. DeGolyer, Norman, Okla. L. E. Howard, Lockport, N. Y. J. S. Lane, New York, N. Y. H. W. DuBois, Philadelphia, Pa. T. V. Nonactre, Argentina. Howard R. Stewart, London, England. N. H. Darton, of the U. S. Geological Survey, has returned to Washington after a long season of field work in New Mexico investigating the prospects of finding potash deposits in the Red beds.

Jan 1, 1916

The following list comprises the names of those persons who became members during the period May 10, 1919, to June 10, 1919. ALAYZA, CARLOS Box 850, Lima, Peru, S. A. BALLARD, P. A Surveyor, Midwest Refin. Co., Custer, So. Dakota. BARNEBL, A. J., JR.... Mech. Eng., The Dorr Co., 101 Park Ave., New York, N. Y. BILLINGS, GOODSELL Platteville, Wis. BRONSON, C. B., Mech. & Met. Engr., New York Central Lines, Room 1520, Grand Central Terminal, New York, N. Y. BUNCE, E. H Met., The New. Jersey Zinc Co., Palmerton, Pa. CHARLTON, D. E. A., Editorial Staff, Engrg. & Mm. Journals 10th Ave. & 36th St., New York, N. Y. DAVIS, JOHN N., Supt. of Mills, Engels Copper Min. Co., Engelmine, Plumas Co., Cal. DUKES, GLENN H., Chief Engr., The Sunday Creek Coal Co.,1001 Outlook Bldg., Columbus, Ohio. ERICKSON, ARTHUR .... Engr., United Smelt., Refin. & Min. Co., Mldvale, Utah. FLYNN, A. E Supt., Rand Consolidated Mines, Ltd., Goudreau, Ont., Canada. HIBBARD, WALTER R 63 Ashley St., Bridgeport, Conn. HOBSBAWN, I. BERKWOOD, Cons. Tech. Chem., Messrs. Gibbs. & Co., Valparaiso, Chile, S. A.

Jan 7, 1919

By George M. Fowler

MINING geology is a progressive study, so we must look to the future for the solution of many of its most significant problems. These problems, world-wide in scope, offer ample opportunity for the exercise of the utmost skill and intelligence by all that attempt to solve theta, as it is generally recognized that many ore deposits of the future will he found only by months or years of combined intelligent effort by the several engineering groups. Renewed appraisals are continually being made to better understand the relationship of physical-chemical processes to ore deposition and other mineralization and to interpret the findings of the geophysicists and others in terms of economic results. A study of current geologic activi¬ties clearly reflects the growing tendency for cooperation between the different branches of geology in order to appraise their united efforts. In line with these activities arrangements have been made to transfer the geophysical section of the U. S. Bureau of Mines to the Geological Survey.

Jan 1, 1936

Paralleling recent experiments in the U. S., the Mines Branch of the Department of Mines and Technical Surveys in Ottawa has developed a laboratory process for recovering cell-grade alumina from aluminiferous shale. Mines Branch Research Report R45 (1959) entitled The Alum-Amine Process For The Recovery of Alumina From Shale by G. Thomas and T. R. Ingraham states " . . . With the recent resurgence in Canada, and in the United States, of attempts to recover cell-grade alumina from clays and shales, the Mines Branch undertook to review certain processes that had been tried with marginal success . . . In particular, it seemed quite possible that some recent developments in organic chemistry, relating to uranium technology, might be utilized for the removal of the last traces of iron from intermediate products to permit the attainment of a satisfactory grade of alumina." This introductory paragraph explains the authors' approach toward development of an alumina recovery process from shale. The following is an abstract of their successful laboratory experiments.

Jan 3, 1960

[ ] TEN FEET TALL and four feet wide, tire designed for Le Tourneau equipment is world's largest, and will operate with only 10 to 15 pounds air pressure. (15) SOIL SAMPLING: A complete collection of data about soil sampling techniques, accumulated during the past 33 years by the Acker Drill Co., is displayed in a 16-page bulletin. Modern sampling techniques are discussed along with recommendations as to correct tools and accessories best suited for economical recovery of samples. (16) GEAR MOTOR: U. S. Electrical Motors Inc. has a new bulletin on the type GW Syncrogear motor, showing phantom views of inner construction and operating detail. [ ] (17) SAFETY: A booklet containing an up-to-date list of American Safety Standards has been published by the American Standards Association. Comprehensive subject index and brief commentaries on the standards helps in selecting proper documents. Nearly all of the 160 American Safety Standards listed are widely used, and some have been adopted as a basic part of governmental codes.

Jan 1, 1952

By Ferron A. Olson

Occasionally it is good to consider the past, assess the present and project the future. Curriculum, enrollment, matriculation of graduates and changes in industry which influence mineral education are all relevant for determining what changes will be needed in educational institutions to support growth and development in the United States. It would appear likely that with environmental pressures, energy needs with present stress in fossil fuels and general societal needs for metals and minerals that mining and metallurgical engineering faces a period of growth and may be on the threshold of a new era with a vitality that has not been enjoyed for several decades. The following information is based on material obtained through questionnaires received from twelve schools accredited in mining or mineral engineering (out of 18 in the U.S.), 2 not accredited and 5 which no longer have mineral engineering disciplines. The schools presented do not include the smaller nor larges of the undergraduate programs in mining engineering.

Jan 8, 1972

By G. Rinelli, A. M. Marabini

Flotation of rutile with N-benzoyl-N-phenyl-hydroxyhmine (N-BPHA) has been investkated. Initially, floatability tests were performed in a Hallimond tube. The results indicated that rutile was floatable at pH 2-4 with N-BPHA concentration between 2 x 10-3 mol/L and 2 x 10-2 mol/L. Selectivity against hematite was recognized when operating at pH values below 2. Following the hypothesis of the formation of a surface chelate between N-BPHA and titanium ion, this compound was precipitated from a solution of Ti (SO4)2 to which N-BPHA was added. I. R. spectrometry of the rutile before and after treatment with N-BPHA solution confirmed the presence of this compound on the rutile surface. Adsorption isotherm and kinetics were determined by analyzing N-BPHA in solution with an U. V. technique. A hypothesis on the way N-BPHA is adsorbed on rutile is presented.

Jan 1, 1984

By R. G. Beverly

The presence of radioactivity in uranium mill wastes has resulted in somewhat unique waste disposal methods. In addition to the common problems of disposing of large quantities of solid wastes, neutralizing acids, minimizing dissolved heavy metals, and clarifying all liquid effluents, the uranium mill operator must sample and analyze liquid effluents for micro-micro-quantities of radio- nuclides such as Ra226, Th230, and Pb210. Special disposal methods or decontamination procedures are required to meet the stringent limitations established by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission on the concentration of radionuclides in liquid effluents. Routine monitoring of the receiving stream is also normally required. In recent years there has been a growing concern about the radioactivity remaining in uranium mill tailings, particularly at the sites of shut-down or dismantled mills. The State of Colorado, in cooperation with the industry, has adopted regulations for stabilization of inactive uranium mill tailings.

Jan 6, 1968

By R. S. McClellan

In order to meet the ever-increasing demand by consumers for uniformity of ground talc, a new method of blending its finished product has been developed by Gouverneur Talc Company, Inc., at its plant near Gouverneur, N. Y. The method has been in use for a sufficient length of time to be now judged a success. The Gouverneur district is the leading talc producing area of the world, inasmuch as more tonnage is produced there than from any other state in the U.S. or, so far as is known, from any other locality in the world. Almost all of the output goes into industrial uses, with ceramics and paint being the principal consuming industries. The physical and chemical specifications imposed by these industries are stringent and the trend, as in most industries, is toward ever increasing severity. The blending method described herein has aided Gouverneur Talc to keep up with this trend.

Jan 3, 1961

By George M. Fowler

DURING 1937 the subject of mining geology was probably given more attention and more mining geologists were usefully employed than at any previous time. Of the many contributing factors the most important were: (1) a higher degree of prosperity in many countries, (2) a. better understanding of geologic phenomena, and (3) the apparently diminishing reserves of several important minerals. Mining companies have come to look upon geology with a growing appreciation of its aid in the more effective exploration and exploitation of mineral deposits. Most of the larger and more active companies have one or more geologists permanently attached to their staffs and some have well organized and efficiently managed geological departments. Even the smaller companies, who feel they cannot afford to employ a geologist on a permanent basis, are seeking the advice of competent men in this field with increasing frequency. One of the most significant trends has been the growing tendency to base exploratory work on more thorough geologic studies instead of empirical "hunches,"on which so much off the work in the past has relied. Likewise, mining companies are apparently more willing to expend larger sums on the basis of geologic possibilities in a district.

Jan 1, 1938

By Vassiliki G. Stavropoulou

Although plane-strain is the preferred method of analysing many rock mecahnics problems, little is known about the behaviour of rock under this loading condition. A simple and inexpensive apparatus has been built for laboratory testing of rocks in plane-strain conditions. A thorough .investigation of the specimen geometry and the friction end effects showed that the results can be considered as reliable. The behaviour of a brittle sandstone in the simplest plane-strain condition [(03 = 0)] is significantly different than that of the uniaxial compression [(02 = U3 = 0)]. The plane-strain values of the Young's Modulus and the Poisson's Ratio are decreased in comparison to the corresponding uniaxial values. Dilatancy is also reduced in plane-strain, whereas the pre-failure brittleness of the rock increases. The most dramatic effect of the plane-strain condition is that on the strength of the sandstone, which increases by 49 per cent in comparison to its uniaxial compression value.

Jan 1, 1982

By AIME AIME

SINCE the preparation of the Fall Meeting announcement the Montana Section has extended an invitation to the members traveling to Spokane to make at least a short stop at Butte, en route. Accordingly, the train schedule below has been worked out as an alternative to that announced in the general circular. This will permit a half day in which to visit either mines at Butte or the smelter at Anaconda and an opportunity for an evening meal with our Montana members. An interesting time is assured either way and the chance to renew acquaintance with Butte friends will be well worth will

Jan 1, 1929

By Carlo Massa

THE Societá Auonima di Miniere e di Alti Fourni, familiarly known as the " Elba Company," works the rich ore-deposits of the Island of Elba under a long-term contract with the Italian Government. The ore-deposits are scattered over the eastern and southeastern coast; but as those parts of the island are not well provided with ports, the blast-furnaces were built at Portoferraio, the principal town of the island, situated on the northern shore, and possessing a magnificent natural harbor where even vessels as large as the battleships of the Italian navy can comfortably anchor. In the selection of Portoferraio. the cost of transporting the iron-ore from the different mines to the blast-furnaces has been reduced to a minimum, and shelter has been provided for the Company's flotilla of tugs and barges, as well as for the steamers carrying coal and pig-iron. The whole plant, of which a general view is given in Fig. 1, comprises 1. A discharging-pier with unloading-cranes. The ore and coal are transported from this pier by means of an aerial cable-rail¬way to the coal- and ore-storage yards. This cable-railway is supported by an iron bridge extending from the pier to the shore and by a wooden trestle extending from the shore to the yards. , 2. Blast furnaces, two in number, with all the accessory appa¬ratus, such as blowing-engines, dry purifiers, Cowper hot-blast stoves, hoists, etc. 3. Coke-ovens, two batteries, with coal-bin, crushers and boilers. 4. Engine-house containing the blast-engines and the electric generating-station. 5. Pumping-plant. 6. Narrow-gauge railways.

Mar 1, 1905

By A. W. Hahn

USE of gold leaf goes back to biblical and even to prehistoric times. Both gold and silver, as well as other metals, were employed in illustrating or illuminating manuscripts. The medieval monks also used bronze powders. Metals were subdivided as finely as possible by mechanical methods, or by granulation and then were pounded into finely divided flakes. Substances such as honey have also been employed, since early times to keep the flakes of metal apart during grinding. Stearic acid is a more modern agent used in flaking aluminum and other metals. Finely divided "blue powder" is a by-product in retorting zinc ores, and contains from 78 to 90 per cent of zinc metal. This has been used as a precipitant for precious metals in the cyanide process and for chemical reduction processes. The making of zinc dust by atomizing is a step well known in electrolytic zinc plants. The Thermit process of Goldschmidt also requires the use of finely divided aluminum.

Jan 1, 1937

By Frank A. Howard

WHAT are the reasons for the present public interest in the synthetic fuel industry, an interest which has culminated in the recommendation of the Secretary of the Interior that we start at once on a nine billion dollar program of construction? Three separate factors seem to have combined to create this pressure. First are recurrent seasonal and spot shortages of gasoline, fuel oil, and natural gas. Second is the international outlook, which forces us to face the possibility of war, with all that means in the way of increased call on our domestic resources and interference with our foreign commerce. The shortages we have experienced are superficially the result of lack of transportation, but basically they reflect a rapidly rising demand which has outstripped the expansion of productive facilities of all kinds. Not only oil and gas, but steel, coal, automobiles, and meat are temporarily in short supply for much the same reasons. The military problem has both long-range and short-range aspects, but the immediate necessity is to create reserve capacity in the United States to supply perhaps 2,000,000 barrels daily additional liquid fuel in time of war.

Jan 1, 1948

Organization Place Date 1918 American Chemical Society Cleveland, 0. Sept. American Society of Sanitary Engineers Chicago, 111. Sept. National Petroleum Association Atlantic City, N. J. Sept. American Institute of. Mining Engineers Colorado Sept. 2-7 National Association of Stationary Engineers.... Cincinnati, 0. Sept. 9-13 Association Iron, Steel, Electrical, Engineers Baltimore, Md. Sept. 9-14 British Iron and Steel Institute, Autumn Meeting London, Eng. Sept. 12-13 National Exposition of Chemical Industries New York, N. Y. Sept. 23-28 American Electrochemical Society Princeton, N. J. Sept. 30¬Oct. 2

Jan 8, 1918

Organization Place Date 1918 American Chemical Society Cleveland, O. Sept. American Society of Sanitary Engineers Chicago, 111. Sept. National Petroleum Association Atlantic City, N. J. Sept. American Institute of Mining Engineers Colorado Sept. 2-7 National Association of Stationary Engineers.... Cincinnati, O. Sept. 9-13 Association Iron, Steel, Electrical, Engineers Baltimore, Md. Sept. 9-14 British Iron and Steel Institute, Autumn Meeting London, Eng. Sept. 12-13 National Exposition of Chemical Industries New York, N. Y. Sept. 23-28 American Electrochemical Society Princeton, N.J. Sept 30-Oct. 2

Jan 7, 1918