Abstract
ABSTRACT
Distributed Fiber Optics Sensing (DFOS) technology provides a high spatial and temporal resolution monitoring platform for tailing storage facilities. Using the same cable, extended for 10s of kilometers, the platform monitors seepage via DTS, deformation via DSS and seismic via DAS.
Through DTS technology, seepage flow and changes in seepage rate can be detected in real time based on seasonal temperature variations representative of the annual mean seepage flow, typically in the order of a few centilitres per second and meter. Sudden seepage flow rate changes caused by internal erosion can be also detected and located.
The same fibre cable, buried in the TSF can be used for monitoring gradual or sudden movements or subsidence in and around the monitoring volume with micron resolution.
DAS records high quality seismic signals that can be used for both passive seismic monitoring and active/passive seismic surveys to image the sub-surface detecting changes in material, areas of seepage and/or internal erosion.
This paper discusses the capabilities and limitations of Fibre Optics sensing as an integrated temperature, strain and seismic platform for monitoring the structural integrity of TSF.
Acronyms:
Distributed Temperature sensing (DTS), Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DSS), Distributed Strain Sensing (DSS), Tailings Storage Facility (TSF), Distributed Fiber Optics Sensing (DFOS)