Stability analysis of filtered tailings stack slopes in Brazil using building information modelling and advanced work packaging

Authors: de Almeida, TFS; Norberto, AS; Barros, ML; Andrade, JLV; Jannuzzi, GDSAI Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2655_04

Cite As:
de Almeida, TFS, Norberto, AS, Barros, ML, Andrade, JLV & Jannuzzi, GDSAI 2026, 'Stability analysis of filtered tailings stack slopes in Brazil using building information modelling and advanced work packaging', 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. 1-12, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2655_04



Abstract:
The ongoing digital transformation in the mining industry has accelerated the integration of building information modelling (BIM) and advanced work packaging (AWP) into geotechnical engineering workflows, enabling more efficient planning, risk assessment, and data management. This paper presents a case study on the application of BIM and AWP to the design and stability assessment of a filtered tailings stack within a digitally managed construction sequencing plan. The workflow included georeferencing, quality control of field surveys, digitalisation of geological–geotechnical data, and the generation of 3D geotechnical modelling was performed using Autodesk Civil 3D (Autodesk 2024) and Seequent Leapfrog Geo (Seequent 2024), while stability analyses were carried out using Slide2 and RS2 developed by Rocscience (2024a, 2024b). Applying limit equilibrium method (LEM) and finite element method (FEM) approaches. The BIM–AWP integration enabled automated extraction of representative cross-sections at each construction stage and direct linkage between digital sequencing and geotechnical analyses, improving traceability, interdisciplinary coordination, and decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. The results indicate that both LEM and FEM analyses yielded safety factors and strength reduction factors consistently above regulatory thresholds, confirming high static and deformation stability of the structure. This performance is primarily attributed to the gentle slope geometry (1V:3H) and the relatively high strength parameters of the filtered tailings. The findings demonstrate that digitally integrated geotechnical workflows enhance the reliability of staged stability evaluations and provide practical insights into the evolution of deformation mechanisms during construction, supporting safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible tailings management practices.

Keywords: filtered tailings stack, BIM, AWP, stability analysis, digital geotechnical workflow

References: