Methodology for the Spatial Representation of the State of Compaction in Tailings Dams

It is common today that the control of the compaction processes for tailings deposits is completed in a punctual manner, which partnered with the large volume of residual deposits, often misrepresents the quality of the construction process; therefore weak areas within the structure of the deposit are not detected, and can be generated possible zones of failures. An analysis of the dynamic variability cone resistance parameter (qd) is shown, which is obtained from the variable energy dynamic lightweight penetrometer test (Panda 2 ®). The assessment variability was estimated using classic statistical tools. Estimations were performed for the qualitative characteristics as a function of the relative density (RD %), this parameter was obtained using a correlation with qdN1 (normalized dynamic cone resistance parameter). Then, the level of compaction, mechanical behavior and risk of liquefaction is determined showing weak zones. The data processing and geospatial modeling were made using the software Rockworks v.14 ®. This work enabled a validation of the hypothesis regarding reconstruction of the internal structure of a tailings deposit, through the compaction test parameters whether quantitative (dynamic cone resistance parameter, qd) or qualitative (compaction, mechanical behavior). Weak zones and corroborating the quality of the compaction test process was performed. Furthermore post compaction control recommendations were completed.