Oxidation processes are studied in various environments, important to understand in complex issues such as acid mine drainage. The chemical reactions are drive

Oxidation processes are studied in various environments, important to understand in complex issues such as acid mine drainage. The chemical reactions are driven by a combination of biological (bacteria, eg.), physical, and chemical processes, in a feedback loop. After much research and study, one of the best practices is to keep such material submerged under water. (Deep enough to prevent oxygen transfer from surface.) In such deeper waters, the processes eventually stop or at least slow down, reaching a sort of, equilibrium. It's a fascinating and complex field - in which mathematical modelling can help, but requires non linear differential equations for real world accuracy. (In the past, only linear methods were used, to simplify the models.) Waste water becomes acidic, this leaches out more metals from rocks, thus increasing available reaction material, thus increase in acidity, etc. Can cause cyclic blooms of highly contaminated waste water, followed by normal flows. (Similar reaction cycles happens under landfills, grain or coal stockpiles, etc.)