Passive sampling technologies, particularly passive diffusion samplers and passive grab samplers, have seen a gradual increase in adoption across large-scale mining operations in the United States, Australia, Canada and South America.
This uptake is primarily driven by the need for more efficient, safer, and cost-effective methods for monitoring groundwater contaminants around mining sites. These methods have been recognized for their ability to provide consistent and reliable data, which is critical for meeting environmental compliance and for long-term monitoring of mine sites.
Benefits of Passive Sampling
1. Safety: Passive samplers reduce the need for field technicians to be present on site for extended periods, which is particularly advantageous in hazardous or remote mining environments. This minimizes exposure to potential onsite dangers and health risks. They are also compatible with drones to provide low-risk pit lake sampling.
See how passive samplers eliminate the risk that comes with pit lake sampling by pairing passive samplers with drones.
2. Time Savings: The deployment of passive samplers can cover extensive periods, collecting data over days, weeks, or months without the need for frequent site visits.
It takes one person 10 minutes to sample each well and there is no set up time or waiting to purge each well. That means less time on hazardous sites and easier scheduling.
3. Cost Savings: By reducing the frequency of site visits and the amount of equipment needed, passive sampling can offer considerable cost savings in groundwater monitoring programs. Fewer resources are needed for field personnel, and there are lower logistical costs.
4. Accuracy of Data: Passive samplers are known for their ability to provide more representative groundwater quality data over time, reducing the variability caused by episodic sampling and handling errors. This can enhance the accuracy of monitoring reports and compliance data.
Challenges of Passive Sampling
Despite the benefits, there are several challenges associated with the deployment of passive sampling at mining sites:
1. Regulatory Familiarity: While passive sampling methods are gaining recognition, there are many individuals at federal, state, and regional authorities that are not familiar with the technology. Navigating these requirements and obtaining approval can be an extra step many users do not want to take. However, the ease of regulatory approval has increased as the familiarity has grown, and EON has a guide to make it a simple process.
2. Technological Limitations: While there are versions of passive diffusion samplers and grab bag samplers that are effective for any contaminant found in groundwater, sampler volume may be a challenge. If the range of contaminants that is being sampled requires more volume than is located within the sampling interval, passive sampling will not work.
3. Regulatory Aspects: Adhering to environmental regulations is paramount in the mining industry. Passive sampling technologies must be demonstrated to meet or exceed the data quality requirements of federal and state environmental agencies. In recent years, there has been progress in this area, with several studies and pilot programs conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) validating the efficacy and reliability of these methods.
The adoption of passive sampling in groundwater monitoring at mining sites in North America is driven by its significant benefits in terms of safety, cost, time efficiency, and data accuracy. As these methods continue to evolve and gain acceptance, they represent a promising tool for environmental compliance and sustainable mining practices.
Learn how passive sampling can help you with The Ultimate Guide to Passive Groundwater Sampling