Structured experiments: the first step toward selecting tailings dewatering and filtration systems based on 2 decades of continuous data collection in Iran

Authors: Aghili, SA; Marghzar, SH; Mirshekari, B; Montazerin, N

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DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2655_35

Cite As:
Aghili, SA, Marghzar, SH, Mirshekari, B & Montazerin, N 2026, 'Structured experiments: the first step toward selecting tailings dewatering and filtration systems based on 2 decades of continuous data collection in Iran', 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_35

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Abstract:
This study compiles and analyses over 2 decades of tailings sedimentation and filtration data from multiple mining operations in Iran, aiming to generalise empirical findings and improve comparability. Samples are classified into ferrous and non-ferrous tailings. Standardised procedures characterised particle size distribution (PSD), chemical composition (X-ray fluorescence), and specific gravity, followed by sedimentation and filtration tests to evaluate thickening, water recovery, and energy demand. Pressure filtration was conducted under high- and low-pressure recessed chambers and membrane filtration, examining cake blow and core blow effects. Coarser tailings (D₈₀ > 150 μm) showed steep settling and filtration responses with lower hydrodynamic resistance, while finer tailings (D₈₀ < 100 μm) formed stable sediment structures with slower filtration. Mineralogy significantly influenced behaviour: higher Fe₂O₃/Fe and lower SiO₂ promoted early aggregation and higher initial filtration rates in non-ferrous tailings, whereas higher SiO₂ increased porosity and cumulative filtrate, particularly in ferrous tailings. Silica effects varied with particle size, affecting pore structure and water release. Overall, the study provides an experimental basis for assessing tailings dewatering performance across a wide range of textural and mineralogical conditions.

Keywords: tailing sedimentation experiment, tailing filtration experiment, weighted distribution index, X-ray fluorescence

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