Tailings
The waste material remaining after ore has been processed to extract valuable minerals.
Detailed Definition
Tailings are the materials left over after the processing of ore to extract valuable minerals or metals. They typically consist of finely ground rock mixed with water and processing chemicals.
Characteristics of tailings: - Fine particle size (often <100 microns) - Contains residual minerals and chemicals - Typically stored as slurry (water and solids) - May contain low-grade mineralization
Tailings storage methods
Tailings Storage Facility (TSF): - Engineered dam structure - Contains tailings slurry behind embankments - Requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance - Subject to strict regulatory requirements
Dry Stack Tailings: - Filtered and dewatered tailings - Stacked as moist solid material - Reduced water usage and dam risk - Higher capital cost
Paste Tailings: - Thickened to high-density paste - Can be used for underground backfill - Reduced water requirements
Environmental considerations: - Potential for acid mine drainage - Seepage and groundwater protection - Long-term stability and closure - Rehabilitation and revegetation
Tailings management is one of the most significant environmental challenges in mining, requiring careful engineering and long-term planning.
Related Terms
Reclamation
The process of restoring land disturbed by mining operations to meet applicable environmental standards.
Ore
Rock or material from which valuable minerals or metals can be profitably extracted.
Beneficiation
The process of improving the value of ore by removing waste material and concentrating the valuable minerals.