ABSTRACT
The investigation of the cyclic behaviour of strength parameters with depth in field conditions for mining tailings is extremely difficult due to the considerable variability of deposition conditions and stress history control. Physical modelling seemed to be the natural choice. Once again, centrifuge modelling incorporates the advantages of allowing a built-up procedure similar to the real deposition process, while keeping control of the field conditions. Also, the amount of soil that should be transported from Minas Gerais to Rio de Janeiro States for the tests became significantly smaller and cheaper.
