Application of in-line polymer addition for tailings disposal-learning and challenges part II

Authors: Guang, R; Longo, S Download Paper

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1752_41_Guang

Cite As:
Guang, R & Longo, S 2017, 'Application of in-line polymer addition for tailings disposal-learning and challenges part II', in A Wu & R Jewell (eds), Paste 2017: Proceedings of the 20th International Seminar on Paste and Thickened Tailings, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, pp. 371-379, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_rep/1752_41_Guang



Abstract:
The use of polyacrylamide-based high-molecular-weight polymer addition at the tailings storage facility (TSF) discharge locations has gained considerable interest in recent years. The intended result of implementing this technique is to have tailings slurry release clear water and create a steepened beach, compared to a conventional tailings slurry disposal method. This paper will focus on a study of a typical iron ore project which required improved water recovery. It has been suggested in previous studies that un-even shear on the polymer dosed tailings deposition on the tailings beach may be problematic. In this testing program, tailings and polymer mixture were tested for water release behaviour under partially sheared and fully sheared conditions. It is concluded that varying the shear regime affects the initial water recovery, up to around two hours after mixing and shearing. At the end of the test, the shear regime had less effect on the overall water recovery. A trade-off comparison between conventional slurry surface disposal and in-line polymer addition disposal is also presented in the paper. The trade-off study demonstrates that the in-line polymer addition technology could provide financial water-saving benefit.

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