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MDAG ABA SPREADSHEET^©,TM

Version: 11

This version is copyrighted (© 2006) by Nora M. Hutt and Kevin A. Morin

Minesite Drainage Assessment Group (MDAG^TM)

Introduction

    Acid-base accounting (ABA) is a fundamental geochemical test for the prediction of minesite-drainage chemistry through time. ABA is discussed and illustrated in great detail in the book, Environmental Geochemistry of Minesite Drainage: Practical Theory and Case Studies.

    ABA consists of individual analyses like total sulphur, sulphide-sulphur, neutralization potential (NP), and paste pH, as well as several calculated parameters, like Total Acid Potential, Sulphide Net Neutralization Potential, and Refined Net Potential Ratio (Table 1 below). Each measured and calculated parameter can be important for predictions. The MDAG ABA Spreadsheet provides a consistent and standardized approach for reporting and calculating the parameters. This approach is consistent with Environmental Geochemistry of Minesite Drainage: Practical Theory and Case Studies.

What's in the MDAG ABA Spreadsheet^©,TM?

    The MDAG ABA Spreadsheet contains columns for each of the parameters listed in Table 1. As well, summary statistics and explanations of equations are provided at the bottom of the spreadsheet.

    The MDAG ABA Spreadsheet is set by default for 50 samples. You can add or subtract rows (samples) as needed. However, it is very important that you adjust the ranges in the summary statistics at the bottom to include only the samples you are entering. For example, if you enter the results for only 40 samples, the summary statistics at the bottom will be based on the default of 50 samples if you do not change the ranges.

    Please note that the NP entered in the spreadsheet should be available and reactive for more accurate predictions.

How to Obtain a Copy of the MDAG ABA Spreadsheet^©,TM

    The MDAG ABA Spreadsheet can be ordered from MDAG Publishing through mail, fax, or e-mail (see Order Form). Payment can be by company check or money order. The Spreadsheet can be sent in various formats (see next paragraph) as an attachment by e-mail.

    The MDAG ABA Spreadsheet currently exists as a Microsoft Excel 97/2000/2003 spreadsheet containing one sheet for a default of 50 samples. We can convert this spreadsheet to any other format supported by Excel 97/2000/2003, although you should understand that some conversions affect formatting and statistics for which we cannot be responsible. Also, you can adjust the number of samples in the spreadsheet by adding or deleting rows - just ensure the ranges used in the summary statistics at the bottom are also adjusted.

    When you purchase a copy, the name of the registered owner will be placed in the MDAG ABA Spreadsheet. The owner then has sole permission to use the spreadsheet. It cannot be given to others.

Relevant References

    Descriptions of ABA analyses, interpretations of ABA results from around the world, and explanations of the numerous acronyms involved in ABA predictions are discussed in:

Morin, K.A., and N.M. Hutt. 1997. Environmental Geochemistry of Minesite Drainage: Practical Theory and Case Studies. MDAG Publishing, Vancouver, Canada. ISBN 0-9682039-0-6.

Morin, K.A., and N.M. Hutt. 2001. Environmental Geochemistry of Minesite Drainage: Practical Theory and Case Studies, Digital Edition. MDAG Publishing, Vancouver, Canada. ISBN 0-9682039-1-4.

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Created by K.Morin