The program emphasizes a close linkage with policy development activity on environmental issues, and addresses the need to base environmental policies and regulations on sound scientific input. MMSL has a wide range of chemical, mineralogical, thermal and physical techniques and equipment for characterizing metal-bearing ores, concentrates, particulates and releases. The program will make use of technical skills in these traditional areas of expertise to start a new activity on pollution prevention. Research includes improving process efficiency by refining mineral processing techniques and developing cost-effective treatment processes. New processes and process improvements continue to address challenges related to process control, increased recoveries and the environment.
Research focuses on equipment and operations specific to such mining.
Joint projects with some 20 Canadian mining companies capitalize on MMSL's expertise on geomechanics, numerical modeling and rock dynamics. Applied Mineralogy Mine effluents toxicology Aquatic effects technology evaluation Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, 2000.