The adaptability and management of an extractive waste facility under expansion: the case of the Cerro do Lobo tailings storage facility at the Neves-Corbo mine

Authors: Nunes, A; Mata, C; Alves, H; Rodrigues, A Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2655_02

Cite As:
Nunes, A, Mata, C, Alves, H & Rodrigues, A 2026, 'The adaptability and management of an extractive waste facility under expansion: the case of the Cerro do Lobo tailings storage facility at the Neves-Corbo mine', in AB Fourie, M Horta, M Oliveira & S Wilson (eds), Paste 2026: Proceedings of the 28th International Conference on Paste, Thickened and Filtered Tailings, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-15, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2655_02



Abstract:
Tailings storage facilities (TSF) are dynamic structures in constant evolution, with distinct phases such as design, construction, operation, expansion and closure. Their lifespans are not only directly linked to the mine’s operational life but also to the closure period where the need for change and adaptation imposes increased attention to monitoring, as well as on structural, hydraulic, and environmental safety. Cerro do Lobo extractive waste facility (IRCL), throughout its history, has undergone significant changes from operational aspects, such as the type of deposition methodology, the tailings production rates and their properties. More recently, the expansion of the deposition area, imposed significant challenges to the daily tailings deposition operation, as well as for the support design team in developing the best solutions to adopt. The successful implementation of the IRCL’s expansion, executed to increase the storage licensed capacity from 33–50 Mm3, is presented. During this period, the structure remained in operation under the current project requirements for the thickened tailings deposition, requiring no adjustments to mine production plans. To achieve this, an alternative tailings deposition plan had to be developed due to a delay in the facility’s expansion construction works. The success in the execution and implementation of this plan resulted from the close collaboration between the operations teams and the Engineer of Record team. During this period, monthly updates to the deposition plans were carried out, which proved essential for adjusting the deposition model to operational needs and for proper water management within the facility. For this purpose, monthly digital terrain surveys were conducted using a drone, which allowed for the monitoring of both the geometry and the performance of the waste rock cover and berms. This procedure, complemented by ongoing observation instrumentation analysis, ensured the continued operation and safety of the facility.

Keywords: tailings storage facility, tailings deposition, tailings rheology, monitoring, drone survey

References: