Optimum deposition for sub-aerial tailings disposal: concepts and theories

• Published in: International journal of mining, reclamation and environment Vol. 20; no. 4; pp. 272 - 285
• Main Authors: Qiu, Y., Sego, D. C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis 01.12.2006
• Subjects: Consolidation; Desiccation; Governing equation; Mine tailings; Numerical solution; Sedimentation; Sub-aerial deposition
• ISSN: 1748-0930; 1748-0949
• DOI: 10.1080/17480930600906144

Mineral and energy production produces large volumes of tailings that are generally disposed of on the Earth's surface. How to minimize their environmental impact and reduce the storage volume of the tailings has become a major concern of mining operations. In addition, the pressure on the optimal use of water resources, especially in arid regions, is a critical issue. Therefore, how to maximize recycling of the process water is an important concern for mine operations in these regions. The sub-aerial deposition technique is a promising method for dealing with these problems. Although this technique has existed for decades, its use still involves technical challenges. Among these, an important concern is the selection of the optimum deposition parameters to yield the best desiccation results. A rational method for evaluating the optimum depositional parameter for design of sub-aerial tailings disposal is proposed. In this paper the concepts of sub-aerial tailings disposal are presented. The physical process of sub-aerial deposition and a one-dimensional model of the sedimentation, consolidation and desiccation of sub-aerially deposited tailings are described in detail.