A broad example of some recent air quality assessment and dust monitoring / assessment projects we have completed include:
Completed modelling and monitoring studies of dust emissions from bauxite mining, calcining and export activities. We performed real-time and integrated PM10 monitoring, and analysed the data to identify dust sources and determine relationships between emissions, ground level concentrations, activity patterns and weather conditions.
Directed the design of the air quality and noise monitoring system at the Port. The system involved real-time and static monitoring of dust concentration, dust fallout and meteorology at several locations around the facility and in nearby residential areas.
Completed air quality component of EIS for the expansion of a terminal. The work involved detailed emission estimation of fugitive sources (wind blown dust, coal stacking/reclaiming and transporting and shiploading) as well as dispersion modelling to assess impacts on surrounding areas.
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Alumina Mining and Refinery
Completed the air quality component of the EIS for the upgrade of the alumina refinery. Work involved detailed emission estimation of all process releases (both fugitive and point source) as well as dispersion modelling to assess impacts on surrounding areas. Assessment was conducted for over 100 pollutants (air toxics, particulates, criteria pollutants). Background work included an on-site emissions survey to estimate fugitive dust emissions from a variety of sources.
Designed and conducted a detailed emissions characterisation of all site releases as part of an overall effort to assess impacts and negotiate compliance issues with the Queensland EPA. The fugitive air emissions associated with red mud and bauxite handling was incorporated into the assessment.
This study assessed the predicted impact on air quality of a rail link supplying coal from a proposed mine to existing power station. The assessment considered emissions of both the diesel exhaust from train locomotives and particles (particulate matter) from the open-topped coal wagons during transport. Modelling was used to predict the resulting levels of gases and particles in the environment.
Assessed air quality for proposed coal mine in Central Queensland, providing high-level technical advice and a review role to co-project manager. The input involved advice on modelling approach, review of model inputs and outputs, strategic overview and advice on management of key air quality issues, and presentations to stakeholders.
In addition, we have performed numerous projects involving open cut and underground coal mines and metalliferous and mineral sand mines including gold and copper mines, phosphate mines and lead/zinc mines.