Abstract
The mining industry faces evolving challenges in adapting to the impacts of climate change. Among these challenges is the management of tailings, the waste generated by the mining operation after the extraction of the desired mine ore. Traditional methods of tailings disposal, primarily utilizing water-based tailings dams, are increasingly vulnerable to the shifting climate patterns, making alternative approaches imperative. This study focuses on the novel solution of surface disposal of frozen paste tailings as a climate-resilient solution.
Frozen paste tailings, composed of fine-grained mineral particles and minimal water content, offer the potential for reduced environmental risks and increased operational sustainability compared to conventional wet tailings. To assess the viability of this approach, a comprehensive investigation is undertaken, encompassing both mechanical and thermal properties of the frozen paste tailings. The mechanical properties evaluation includes the assessment of particle size distribution, strength, and shear characteristics. Additionally, thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity measurements are conducted to understand the material's thermal behavior. These analyses provide crucial insights into the stability and performance of frozen paste tailings in a changing climate. Furthermore, a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model is developed to simulate the behavior of the frozen paste tailings throughout different seasons. This heat transfer model is a predictive tool for assessing how the frozen paste tailings respond to varying climatic conditions over time.
The results of this research not only contribute to a deeper understanding of frozen paste tailings but also offer a promising avenue for sustainable tailings management practices in a climate-altered world. By mitigating the reliance on wet tailings dams, the adoption of frozen paste tailings could represent a significant step towards climate-resilient mining operations while minimizing environmental impacts.