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TitleGeotechnics of nonsegregating oil sand tailings
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication1993
AuthorsCaughill, D. L., Morgenstern N. R., & Scott J. D.
Volume30
Issue5
Pagination10 pages
Date Published05/1993
PublisherCanadian Geotechnical Journal
Publication Languageeng
Keywordschemistry, geotechnical properties, laboratory trials, tailings, tailings treatment, tailings water, UofA
Abstract

The present method of oil sands tailings disposal results in a tailings pond with a fine tailings zone that will take many decades to consolidate fully. The fine tailings accumulate as a result of the segregating characteristics of the tailings stream. Nonsegregating mixes of total tailings are desirable to prevent or greatly reduce the formation of a fine tailings zone. This study investigated the use of lime and sulphuric acid to prevent segregation of the tailings stream. Two batches of Syncrude tailings were tested. These averaged 48 and 55% solids and 17% fines (< 44 pm). The hindered settling and consolidation properties of nonsegregating mixes were determined using large-diameter standpipe and slurry consolidation cells. Nonsegregating mixes were achieved by adding 600-800 ppm CaO, based on total weight, or 7.5-10 mL/L of 10% H,SO,, based on the total volume of tailings. Predictions of field performance using a finite strain consolidation program indicate that a deposition rate of up to 20 mlyear of treated total tailings is possible, depending upon the simultaneous degree of consolidation desired. The discovery of non- segregating mixes with sufficient self-draining capability opens many options to address this important waste- management problem.

URLhttp://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/t93-071
Locational Keywords

Athabasca Oil Sands Region (AOSR), Fort McMurray

Active Link

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/206147678

Group

OSEMB

Citation Key52460

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