Electrokinetics enhanced thickening of mine tailings

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The objective of this research is to assess the viability of electrokinetic process for dewatering of fine mine tailings provided by the industrial sponsors for preparation of commercialization of the technology. The development of the innovative dewatering technology will benefit the industry partner to develop and grow in Canada, and more importantly, ultimately benefits the Canadian mining industry in meeting their global challenges in mine waste management. Both the PI and industrial sponsor believe that with proper engineering design, EK technology has potential to play a significant role in dewatering of dilute tailings and further dewatering of thickened tailings. Kovit Engineering Limited will supply tailings sample, data obtained from the mining sites and their lab for analysis. Meetings are scheduled on a regular basis over the project period to discuss the progress. The PI will communicate with Kovit Engineering Limited on findings from the project and make recommendations for the next step development. The results of the project will be presented at international conferences and published in peer reviewed engineering journals. Canadian mining companies receive respect as industry leaders for their responsible mining practices. The success of the proposed project will lead to the development of a new technology for the management of mine tailings, leading to increased geotechnical and geochemical stability of mine tailings, reducing the size and cost of containment dams, and the volume of water sent to the impoundment, which would make the tailings storage safer and increase water recovery and recycle. Furthermore, achieving greater dewatering would offer additional environmental advantages such as reduced fresh water consumption, reduced contact water and reduced toxic leachate generation.