ABSTRACT
This paper presents an overview of paste technology integrated means for effective management of sulfidic tailings by laboratory and field investigations. The properties of tailings, such as grain size, water content, porosity, specific surface and degree of saturation were determined experimentally. The effect of cement content, type and curing on properties of paste backfill was examined by using the laboratory setups which can well replicate the backfill’s field conditions. Effect of placement and curing regimes on environmental and geotechnical behavior of surface paste disposal was examined by using the field experimental cells. Results indicate that underground backfill and surface disposal can be utilized concurrently without creating environmental damages (e.g., tailings dam failure, acid formation) over the mine’s life.
