Friction: Edition 21 | September 2024
FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to September. As we transition to the business end of the year, we turn our attention to a critical area of our industry: tailings dam rehabilitation. In this edition, Senior Geotechnical Engineer, Ahmad Zarei of Cartledge Mining and Geotechnics highlights the innovative methods emerging in the management and safety of tailings dams. He shares his perspective on the cutting-edge approaches being used in tailings dam management, which prioritise both environmental responsibility and long-term structural integrity.
This month's area of focus also provides a chance to look back at Paul Davies’ comprehensive, insightful and prevailing piece on the evolution of monitoring tailings dams globally, and is a timely reminder of how advancements in technology are helping to reduce risk for both miners and communities. His interview with GroundProbe colleague Leo Probst, Senior Geotechnical Engineer in Research and Development, shares insights into the complex structures that tailings dams are.
Join us as we explore the tailings dam ecosystem and the advancements reshaping how we manage and monitor these vital structures.
Want to connect with like-minded geotechnical professionals? Be sure to head to our events calendar to keep up to date with what is happening near you and if you’re interested in joining a geotechnical association in your area, check out our Associations Directory.
Regards,
Tim Cartledge
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Innovative approaches to tailings dam rehabilitation: The importance of addressing environmental and structural risks
Tailings dam rehabilitation is a complex task that demands technical expertise and innovative solutions. These large structures, which hold millions of cubic meters of mining waste, pose significant environmental and societal risks if not managed properly.
In a recent article, Ahmad Zarei, Senior Geotechnical Engineer at Cartledge Mining and Geotechnics, explores the evolving methods for safely rehabilitating tailings dams. The article delves into cutting-edge approaches that aim to balance environmental responsibility with long-term structural stability.
The evolution of monitoring tailings dams across the globe
The methods used by geotechnical engineers to monitor tailings dams have evolved over the years due to advancements in technology, AI, and research and development.
As this month’s topic explores all things related to tailings dams, it provides an opportunity to revisit a past article by GroundProbe’s Paul Davies, who interviewed Leo Probst. The article reflects on what the industry has learned since the fatal Samarco dam collapse in Brazil in 2015 and what’s required to reduce risk through the continual monitoring of tailings dams.
NEWS, PUBLICATIONS AND UPDATES
Evaluation structures for machine learning models in geotechnical engineering
Machine learning (ML) has significant potential for geotechnical engineers by helping them incorporate data into decision-making processes.
From formulating the problem and identifying data needs to choosing appropriate algorithms, this article explores the essential components of successful ML research. This highlights the challenges and potential solutions for bringing ML into geotechnical practice, emphasising the importance of domain-specific knowledge, data quality, and algorithm evaluation.
Slope monitoring using Synthetic Aperture Radar
Advancements in technology have provided the geotechnical engineering industry with access to state-of-the-art tools such as Synthetic Aperture Radars (SAR) for monitoring slope stability.
This article delves into the various applications of SAR in industries such as mining, construction, and natural hazard management. It addresses the challenges involved and highlights SAR’s advantages, including its ability to operate in adverse weather conditions and provide high-accuracy measurements, making it a valuable tool for monitoring slope stability.
A review of previous studies on the applications of Fibre Optic Sensing technologies in geotechnical monitoring
Compared to conventional sensors, Fibre Optic Sensing technologies can offer unique advantages when it comes to geotechnical monitoring.
This article explores the benefits of Fibre Optic Sensing technology and how resistance to electromagnetic interference, stable long-distance signal transmission, high durability, and high sensitivity make this technology well-suited for addressing the uncertainties and challenges faced in geotechnical engineering.
Blast design and simulation modelling in surface mining: An extensive technical study
Effective blasting in surface mining relies heavily on robust modelling and simulation techniques to optimise efficiency, safety, and environmental impacts.
This article explores the two primary approaches: utilising theoretical blast models and leveraging specialised blasting software for simulation. It looks at each approach’s applications, benefits, and challenges.
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