Tailings dams are earth structures that are used in the process of mining for the purpose of storing and retaining mine tailings. Mine tailings are the process output or materials left over after the ore being mined has been processed. Tailings dams are used to store the tailings in a very safe and secure manner.
Tailings dams are usually constructed within close proximity of a mine and its processing facility. They consist of a variety of structures that work together to provide a safe and efficient way to store tailings. The most typical components of a tailings dam include a berm and embankment, a wall or barrier, a bottom liner and a leak prevention system.
The berm and embankment are key components that serve to create a strong, stable and secure dike or wall that surrounds the mine tailings. The berm is constructed of soil and rocks and helps to support the embankment, which is built up of layers of soil and other layers of earth materials. The height of the berm and embankment may be as high as 15-20 meters.
The wall or barrier is placed in front of the berm and serves as an additional measure for the containment of the tailings. It is often constructed out of reinforced concrete and acts as an additional impermeable barrier.
The bottom of the tailings dam is constructed from a special type of rock material known as a bentonite-cement-sand mixture. This specialty rock helps to form a tight seal between the berm and the wall or barrier and also prevents seepage or leakage of the tailings.
Finally, a leak prevention system is installed to reduce the chances of a failure of the dam or the leakage of the tailings. This system is designed to detect any seepage or leak that may occur. It is also designed to monitor water levels and flow within the tailings dam and can be used to divert any excess water away from the dam.
Tailings dams provide an efficient and secure way to control and store mine tailings. They ensure that the tailings are contained and that there is no possibility of them escaping from the mine. Tailings dams are built to strict safety regulations, which are regularly monitored and maintained to ensure that the dam is working properly and is safe to store the tailings. Although tailings dams can be expensive to construct, they are essential for the safe and secure disposal of tailings and are worth the cost in order to protect the environment.
