Centrifuge modeling of deposition and consolidation of fine-grained mine tailings

Nonika Antonaki, Inthuorn Sasanakul, Tarek Abdoun, Maria V. Sanin, Humberto Puebla, Javier Ubilla

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Mining activity produces increasingly large amounts of waste, usually referred to as mine tailings. The material normally has water content that ranges from 50 to 100%, due to extensive use of water during the mineral extraction process. Particle size ranges from sand to silt. The tailings are most commonly deposited in layers and left to consolidate under their own weight. In this study, this process was modeled using a geotechnical centrifuge. Centrifuge modeling allows the evaluation of the consolidation behavior of an approximately 25 m high tailings impoundment deposited in five to six layers at the pumping water content. A new technique of monitoring settlement within the soil profile was established and tested. Pore pressure dissipation and shear wave velocity were also measured during consolidation. Results provide useful data for the assessment of the in situ behavior and characterization of the material.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationGeo-Congress 2014 Technical Papers
Subtitle of host publicationGeo-Characterization and Modeling for Sustainability - Proceedings of the 2014 Congress
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Pages3223-3232
Number of pages10
Edition234 GSP
ISBN (Print)9780784413272
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
Event2014 Congress on Geo-Characterization and Modeling for Sustainability, Geo-Congress 2014 - Atlanta, GA, United States
Duration: Feb 23 2014Feb 26 2014

Publication series

NameGeotechnical Special Publication
Number234 GSP
ISSN (Print)0895-0563

Other

Other2014 Congress on Geo-Characterization and Modeling for Sustainability, Geo-Congress 2014
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAtlanta, GA
Period2/23/142/26/14

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Building and Construction
  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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