IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Investigation of chemical stability and its impact on the quality of cemented mine tailings

Abstract

The use of cemented mine tailings is widespread in northwest Quebec, as it improves the stability of underground facilities and allows landfilling of mine residues that may be highly toxic. However, recent studies have shown that, over time, cemented tailings may undergo chemical transformation that decreases their mechanical strength. In order to assess the magnitude of this hazard to miners, the effect of variations in the binder content of 33 cementing formulations was evaluated experimentally in 3 mines, under conditions mimicking real-life conditions. Although the cemented tailings did not undergo chemical transformation, certain formulations were found to be considerably less hazardous than others, a valuable finding in itself.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0098-0070
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2000
Team:
  • Mostafa Benzaazoua (Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue)
  • Jacques Ouellet (Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue)