Instructor: Dr. K.E.N. Tsidzi

Project: Managing Gold Mining Waste; Soil and Rock Mechanics

This project will focus on two major mining towns, Obuasi and Takwa, both within 80 kilometers of Kumasi. Case studies and scientific studies will take the student into a thorough study of mining practices and waste analysis. The student's objective will be to find various uses and methods for reconstructing and minimizing gold mine waste. Alternative uses of waste will be identified, performed, and assessed.

The student will need to have some prior experience in geology and rock and soil mechanics, that will enable them to study various forms of rock and concrete waste, soil components, and characteristics which make one form of rock better suited for roadways, concrete, etc. Rock and soil additives, which would better prepare these materials for alternative environmental and engineering usage, will be developed through the student's course of study.

Among several other questions, the student could explore the following:

• Where is waste generated in gold mining?
• How do gold mining communities currently handle this waste and the greater effects of these conditions?
• Why is this material causing environmental problems?
• What alternative uses could this waste perform?
• What additives could improve and transform the waste into usable engineering tools/methods?
• What is the cost-benefit analysis of such improvements?