Abstract
In this study, the basic principles of paste technology which has been implemented successfully in the mining industry for both waste volume reduction and environmental impact reduction were investigated. In the past two decades, paste technology has progressed from a research-based mine backfill idea to a widely accepted and cost-effective fill system with the potential to totally change the approach tailings are disposed on the surface. Application of paste tailings for modern mines was shown experimentally by laboratory and field testing, focusing on intrinsic (e.g., tailings, cement and mix water properties) and extrinsic (e.g., in situ mixing, placement and curing conditions) parameters. Results indicate that use of paste tailings as backfilling and disposal in the mining industry as an innovative and environmentally sound system can guarantee operational continuity by reducing environmental (e.g., tailings dam failure, acidic water formation) and financial concerns over the mine’s life. Finally, paste technology enables mining operators to better manage their problematic tailings produced in the mineral processing plants.
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