ABSTRACT
A one-dimensional model of the sedimentation and desiccation of high-clay-content, subaerially deposited tailings is described. The approach is semi-empirical and predicts average density and water content of a layer of tailings during sedimentation, first stage evaporation, varying rainfall, and variation of initial height and solids content. The method employs both geomechanical and soil physics principles and allows for varying evaporation, varying rainfall, and variation of initial height and solids content. The model allows the effects of different initial layer depths, to be compared with total drying time and resulting final dry density.
