Optimization of the use of waste rock inclusions in tailings impoundments to improve their short and long-term performance

该研究将侧重于尾矿和废石储存的创新方法，从而改善环境和岩土性能，从而减少与采矿有关的重大风险。该方法包括尾矿和废石的共同处置，使得更强、更渗透和更刚性的废石的连续夹杂物与尾矿沉积一起放置。夹杂物加速固结，加强蓄水，并减少破裂时释放的尾矿量。这一技术目前在加拿大Malartic矿使用，并正在考虑在其他地点使用。在使用夹杂物方面仍有不确定的领域，例如包括评价和设计的分析和数值方法的适用性以及尾矿渗入夹杂物的数量和影响等实际考虑因素。

The research will focus on an innovative method for the storage tailings and waste rock that results in improved environmental and geotechnical performance and thus reduces major risks associated with mining. The method consists of the co-disposal of tailings and waste rock such that continuous inclusions of stronger, more permeable and more rigid waste rock are placed in tandem with tailings deposition. The inclusions accelerate consolidation, reinforce the impoundment and reduce the quantity of tailings released in the event of a rupture. This technique is currently in use at one mine, the Canadian Malartic Mine, and is being considered at other sites. There remain areas of uncertainty regarding the use of inclusions, including for instance the applicability of analytical and numerical methods of evaluation and design as well as practical considerations such as the amount and effects of tailings infiltration into the inclusions.