ABSTRACT
The major environmental challenge associated with mining industry is acid mine drainage (AMD), which forms when sulfide rocks are exposed to air and water for prolonged periods. Since the formation of AMD requires sulfide-bearing rocks encountering water and oxygen, excluding either or both should prevent or at least minimize production of AMD. Water forms a major part of the required essentials needed during operation of a mine. Compared to organic membranes, inorganic membranes can withstand the effects of chemical corrosion, organic solvent attack, and high temperatures. The performance and success of membrane technology especially for wastewater treatment is highly dependent on the biodegradability and non-toxicity of the chosen materials, making natural polymeric materials such as chitosan a promising option. Due to its unique properties, application of chitosan-based materials has been showcased in industries such as wastewater treatment, food, cosmetics, biomedical, and agriculture. In the wastewater industry, the use of chitosan composite materials has been demonstrated.
