Technical Resource Document: Extraction and Beneficiation of Ores and Minerals: Copper

This report is one of a series of profiles of major mining sectors. It briefly characterizes the geology of copper ores and the economics of the industry. The document describes copper ore extraction and beneficiation operations with specific reference to the waste and materials associated with these operations and the potential environmental effects that may result from lead-zinc mining. It includes EPA site visit summaries and concludes with a description of current regulatory programs that apply to the copper mining industry as implemented by EPA, the Federal land management agencies, and the State of Arizona.

You will need Adobe Reader to view some of the files on this page. See EPA's PDF page to learn more.

Chapter 1: Mining Industry Profile: Copper Part A (PDF) (88 pp, 621K) includes:
- Introduction
- Economic Characterization of the Industry
- Ore Characterization
- Copper Extraction and Benefication Practices
Chapter 1: Mining Industry Profile: Copper Part B (PDF) (125 pp, 811K) includes:
- Wastes and Other Materials Associated with Copper Extraction and Beneficiation
- Environmental Effects
- Current Regulatory and Statutory Framework
- References
Chapter 2: Mine Site Visit: ASARCO/Troy Mine (PDF) (45 pp, 350K)
Chapter 3: Mine Site Visit: San Manuel Facility Magma Copper Company (PDF) (77 pp, 734K)
Chapter 4: Mine Site Visit: Copper Range Company White Pine Mine (PDF) (49 pp, 243K)

Top of Page

Technical Resource Document: Extraction and Beneficiation of Ores and Minerals: Copper

Local Navigation