Optimizing Separation of Waste Drilling Muds through Ultraflocculation and Flocculant Selection

The disposal of drilling mud waste from uranium mining operations poses a significant environmental challenge due to their toxicity and potential for contamination. The investigation aims to test different powder flocculants of approximately the same molecular weight and their interaction with waste drilling mud and to identify the flocculant with the best qualities for further use in the industry. The empirical method was applied in the study, during which experiments were carried out on a sample of drilling mud, along with quantitative and statistical analyses. Flocculation was carried out using a Couette cylindrical flocculator. Three flocculants, namely A-150, N-100, N-300, and C-494, from a single manufacturer, Kemira, were also chosen for the study. As a result of the laboratory experiments, it was determined that N-300 was the best flocculant, giving optimum results in the study. It has been found to be capable of separating the drilling mud into water and solids fractions as quickly as possible. In addition, the use of ultra-flocculent treatment to improve the intensity of the sedimentation process of clay suspensions is a prerequisite. Thus, the drilling fluids treated in this way are more environmentally friendly, increase productivity and duration, and reduce production costs. The novelty lies in systematically evaluating various powder flocculants and applying ultraflocculation, a sophisticated hydrodynamic treatment method, to optimize the separation process.