Effects of in-situ dewatering and compaction of copper tailings using mechanical consolidation

ABSTRACT

The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), along with its members, has established

ambitious goals to advance tailings management practices. These objectives include reducing tailings

moisture content and improving material strength through the adoption of scalable, cost-effective

technologies that not only process tailings efficiently but also aim to minimize or eliminate tailings

generation. The integration of Best Available Technology (BAT) within tailings management systems

(TMS) is essential for the economical development of safe, stable, and environmentally responsible

landforms throughout both operational and post-closure stages.

Mechanical consolidation and compaction emerge as a viable solution aligned with conventional

tailings storage facility design and operational strategies. It supports key principles such as

maximising tailings density and minimising water retention, in accordance with the Global Industry

Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM). Accelerated mechanical consolidation and compaction

involves the use of specialised equipment to apply controlled loads significantly exceeding in-situ

stress conditions. This expedites the consolidation process, improving operational efficiency,

lowering associated risks, and facilitating the compaction and dewatering of deposited tailings.

dewatering and compaction of copper tailings

A large-scale trial conducted at a copper tailings storage facility in Chile aimed to validate the

feasibility and effectiveness of mechanically assisted consolidation and compaction.

A comprehensive suite of geotechnical parameters—including dry and bulk density, undrained shear

strength (vane test), moisture content, infiltration rates, and cone penetration resistance—was

evaluated across untreated and treated zones. The trial results demonstrated measurable

improvements in all monitored parameters within mechanically treated areas, while untreated

sections showed limited or marginal gains over the same period. These findings highlight the

significant potential of mechanical dewatering, consolidation, and compaction technologies to

enhance tailings management. They also underscore the transformative role of mechanically aid

consolidation and compaction in addressing the critical challenges associated with copper tailings

storage.

1 Effects of in-situ dewatering and compaction of copper tailings using mechanical consoli.

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