Waste Storage Facilities Research Articles

A finite discrete element approach for modeling of desiccation fracturing around underground openings in Opalinus clay

Understanding and predicting potential failure mechanisms during the excavation and open drift stages of geological repository construction are among the crucial aspects of performance evaluation and safety assessment of nuclear waste storage facilities. The development of the Excavation Damage Zone (EDZ) and the generation of shrinkage-induced cracks during operational phases are prominent examples of failure mechanisms that can compromise the integrity of the repository systems. This study presents an integrated framework for investigating shrinkage-induced cracking of Opalinus Clay in niches and tunnels. To achieve this, the hybrid Finite Discrete Element Method (FDEM) is employed. The methodology incorporates a two-way staggered hydro-mechanical coupling scheme, where solid phase analysis relies on 2D FDEM and fluid flow is modeled using the nonlinear Richards’ equation and solved via Finite Volume discretization. To account for the effects of EDZ, characterized by a pronounced increase in hydraulic conductivity, a numerical simulation of tunnel excavation is first carried out. The resulting failure pattern around underground openings is then abstracted through the definition of an altered hydraulic conductivity field. Comparison of the numerical results with field observations demonstrates the framework’s ability to capture a wide range of failure mechanisms inherent in various stages of underground repository construction in Opalinus Clay.

A mechanized assembly for erecting soil-cement barriers to protect agricultural lands from low-active waste during flood

The object of this study is the process of constructing a waterproof underground barrier from local soil using loess loam and medium-sized sand as an example. The values of waterproofing of soil cements on different types of soil and the norms of net labor consumption corresponding to them were obtained. The research solves the task of protecting agricultural lands in the areas of geological burials of low-level radioactive waste. Configuration of a mechanized drilling mixing assembly for installing a waterproof barrier in the field has been proposed. Waterproofness of soil cement on clay and sandy soils was determined experimentally. The corresponding norms of the net consumption of time for manufacturing the barrier in these soils have been determined. Units of the mechanized assembly are repairable, utilize widely available materials, parts, and mechanisms. As a result of studies on the labor intensity of the installation of soil cement, a net labor rate was established, which varies from 35 to 52 min/m3 depending on the type of soil. The corresponding values of waterproofness, which ranged from W6 to W14, were determined, which substantiates the possibility of effective functioning of soil-cement underground barriers. Options for the structural solution for impenetrable barriers have been offered. The values of the obtained net time rates are explained by the high degree of mechanization of the technological process and the use of local materials. A distinctive feature of the results is the emphasis on the data collection on the time consumption of machines and mechanisms, the characteristics of local soils under production conditions, and the use of local materials. The assembly implies using affordable and repairable units that can be serviced right in the field. Given this, the manufacturability of the proposed process was defined, confirmed by time-keeping studies. The realm of practical application of the reported results are sites within flat areas with sandy or loess bases. Barrier solutions are designed exclusively for geological waste storage facilities under the conditions of a high level of groundwater and the presence of a waterproof layer at the base

방사성 물질 흡착용 활성탄소섬유 시험방법 연구

The global demand for energy is escalating due to the increased power consumption for AI data centers, leading to the expansion of nuclear power facilities and a subsequent rise in radioactive waste generation. To address this, activated carbon filter systems have been employed in nuclear power plants to adsorb and prevent the atmospheric release of radioactive iodine, a byproduct of these facilities. However, the substantial annual discharge of activated carbon is causing challenges such as a shortage of waste storage facilities. To mitigate this issue, this study investigated the application of activated carbon fiber (ACF) in nuclear power plant filter systems. Adhering to existing standards for radioactive material adsorption, we established a suitable testing environment for ACF and conducted adsorption and removal tests. The results demonstrated a maximum removal efficiency of over 99.918% for radioactive iodine, indicating a performance comparable or superior to that of conventional activated carbon used in current processes. This research is expected to contribute positively to the diversification of materials used for radioactive material adsorption and removal in nuclear power plants, as well as the establishment of relevant standards.

Hydrodynamic Model of the Area of the Żelazny Most Mining Waste Storage Facility to Reconstruct the Migration of Saline Groundwater

This paper presents the construction of a numerical three-dimensional model of the area of the Żelazny Most Mining Waste Storage Facility (MWSF). In the study area, the difficult geological conditions associated with glaciotectonics are accompanied by a complex hydrotechnical system of sediment deposition and sedimentary water drainage. In order to effectively reflect the water flow paths, a detailed schematization was carried out, using 700,000 boreholes and more than 300 hydrogeological cross-sections. In addition, numerous drainage sections, streams, and ditches were included to reliably assess the amount of saline water entering the underlying aquifers. This research was supported by magnetic resonance sounding (MRS) studies of the reservoir’s sediments. The MWSF is currently being expanded, so the work primarily focuses on illustrating changes in the hydrodynamic field resulting from the inclusion of the new southern section. Models of similar facilities have been implemented before, but in the current one, the combination of meticulous analysis of the hydro-structural system, the water balance, a significant amount of data, the size of the facility, and the use of an unstructured discretization grid in the calculations is undoubtedly innovative and will be an important contribution to the development of analogous solutions around the world.

Examining imidacloprid behaviorally resistant house flies (Musca domestica L.) (Diptera: Muscidae) for neonicotinoid cross-resistance.

The house fly (Musca domestica L.) is a ubiquitous fly species commonly associated with confined animal and urban waste storage facilities. It is known for its pestiferous nature and ability to mechanically vector numerous disease-causing pathogens. Effective control of adult house fly populations has traditionally relied upon insecticidal food baits; however, due to the overuse of insecticides, resistance has proven to yield many insecticidal baits and chemical classes less effective. Imidacloprid, the most widely used neonicotinoid, has been formulated and commonly used in house fly baits for over 2 decades. However, widespread evidence of physiological and behavioral resistance to imidacloprid has been documented. While previous studies have investigated the mechanisms of behavioral resistance to imidacloprid in the house fly, it remains unclear whether behavioral resistance is specific to imidacloprid or if behavioral cross-resistance exists to other compounds within the neonicotinoid class of insecticides. The current study used no-choice and choice-feeding bioassays to examine a lab-selected imidacloprid behaviorally resistant house fly colony for cross-resistance to other insecticides in the neonicotinoid chemical class. All flies exhibited high mortality (97-100%) in no-choice assays, even when exposed to imidacloprid, indicating physiological susceptibility to all tested neonicotinoids. House flies exhibited high mortality (98-100%) in choice assays when exposed to all neonicotinoid insecticides tested besides imidacloprid. These results confirm that imidacloprid behavioral resistance is specific to the compound imidacloprid and that alternative neonicotinoids remain viable options for control. Our study showed no evidence of behavioral cross-resistance to other compounds in the neonicotinoid class.

Evaluation of municipal solid waste characterization and landfill gas power plant electrical energy production efficiency during COVID-19 pandemic

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the amount and types of municipal solid waste (MSW) have dramatically changed. This study focuses on characterizing the MSWs in the regular waste storage facility (RWSF) in Izmir, Turkey, and determining the electrical energy that can be produced by the landfill gas power plant (LFGPP) established to convert the waste to energy (WtE). Therefore, firstly the MSWs were characterized. After, the amount of produced methane (CH4) gas was determined using Landfill Gas Emissions Modeling (LandGEM). The amount of generated electricity, the dependent variable in the LandGEM model, was most influenced by the quantity of MSW, garbage disposal processes, and maintenance times of gas generators, while other factors remained relatively weak. This situation has also been confirmed in the field. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the increase in MSW was 9.8% in 2020 and 10.3% in 2021. Kitchen waste containing the highest CH4, accounted for 38% of the MSW characterization. The amount of generated electricity in the LandGEM model was 237 GWh in 2020 and 245 GWh in 2021. While these values could be achieved by 11.25% in 2020 due to various system and field failures, they reached 79.73% in 2021 due to system and field improvements.

Cancer Incidence in a Population Living Near Radioactive Waste Storage of Uranium Mining in Stepnogorsk Area, Northern Kazakhstan.

This study evaluates the impact of radioactive uranium waste storage facilities on cancer occurrence in nearby areas. Current research evaluates the effect of radioactive uranium waste storage facilities on cancer epidemiology in nearby areas. The critical area had Aqsu, Kvartsitka, Zavodskoy and Stepnogorsk cities, which are located at a less than 5 km distance to the south of the Hydrometallurgical Plant tailings dump while the control group had Akkol region in 90 km from the source. The majority of population had lived in this territory more than the 30 years. Data were obtained from the Electronic Register of Cancer Patients of the Republic of Kazakhstan from 2001-2015, and 2,271 incident cases of cancer were registered. The most frequent malignancies were observed in the digestive organs (646 cases, 28%) and respiratory and intrathoracic organs (376 cases, 17%). The proportion of digestive organ cancers was higher in the critical group (560 cases out of 1913, 29%) than in the control group (86 cases out of 358, 24%). Additionally, respiratory organ cancers were more common in men, but the cancer incidence rate ratio was higher in the critical area. Notably, the study found that the cancer incidence rate ratios decreased over time, specifically for digestive, respiratory and female genital organs and breast cancer. In conclusion, while our study highlights significant differences in cancer incidence rates and frequencies between the critical and control groups, further analytical research, incorporating age-adjustment, is needed to provide a more conclusive evaluation of the potential impact of residence in proximity to the uranium mining waste storage on cancer occurrence in the study area.

Erratum to: Prokaryotic Communities during the Self-Infestation of a Chemical Industry Waste Storage Facility

Erratum to: Prokaryotic Communities during the Self-Infestation of a Chemical Industry Waste Storage Facility

Waste Lubricant Oil Management: A Review of Technical Aspects and Regulatory Compliance

PT X, one of the largest coal mining companies in Indonesia, is located in Berau District, East Kalimantan. The company's mining activities produce waste lubricant oil, a dominant hazardous waste containing toxic materials that can significantly pollute the environment if not properly managed. Given the critical importance of managing waste lubricant oil, Indonesia has established several regulations for hazardous waste management. This study aims to evaluate both the technical aspects and regulatory compliance of PT X's waste lubricant oil management by comparing existing practices with technical criteria and applicable regulations. The methodology involves assessing the capacity of hazardous waste storage facilities based on the generation of waste lubricant oil, regulatory requirements, and transportation frequency, alongside compliance assessments of packaging, storage, and in situ utilization practices. Results indicate that PT X's storage capacity for waste lubricant oil is adequate and that its internal management practices fully comply with regulations. However, nonconformities were found in the hazardous waste management practices of third-party entities, particularly in packaging and storage. This research highlights the need for improved monitoring and regulation of third-party waste management practices to ensure comprehensive compliance and environmental protection.

Accidents at Waste Storage Facilities: Methods of Struggle with the Consequences of Accidents

The article deals with such issues as storage of industrial waste, causes, examples and prevention of accidents, NGO operation and reclamation, and methods of dealing with the consequences of accidents. When storing industrial waste in large volumes, various complications arise, including accidents in waste storage facilities. The article provides examples of accidents for specific objects and analyzes their causes and consequences. The methods of dealing with the consequences of accidents and their prevention are considered. The materials of the article can help specialists improve the design and operation of waste storage facilities.

Mission Results: Creating a 3D Map of a Very High Radiation Confined Space Using the LiDAR-Equipped Elios 3 Drone

A prototype configuration of an Elios 3 indoor inspection drone, made by Flyability, comprising a lightweight light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system and a wide-range, electronic dosimeter was developed and tested to quickly measure radiation levels and collect three-dimensional (3D) spatial data from within a very high radiation nuclear waste storage facility at the U.S. Department of Energy−operated Idaho National Laboratory (INL) site. The compact drone configuration was used for inspecting and collecting data from areas difficult or hazardous to access using conventional methods. Validation testing of the prototype drone configuration was performed, including maneuverability, radiation tolerance, dosimeter integration, and elevated ambient temperature testing. The drone configuration was shown to operate successfully in an ionizing radiation field as high as 100 Gy/h (10 000 rad/h), with an accumulated radiation dose of 40 Gy (4000 rad) and ambient air temperatures of 54°C (130°F). On November 16, 2022, the LiDAR and dosimeter-equipped prototype drone was used to successfully collect 3D spatial data and radiation measurements from within a very high radiation nuclear waste storage facility at the INL site, where it encountered radiation levels up to 7 Gy/h (700 rad/h). The mission, which included three flights of the prototype drone configuration, represents the first-ever drone flight within a very high radiation nuclear waste storage facility. On the third flight into the storage facility, the drone was unable to produce adequate lift necessary to fly back out of the facility. The lessons learned suggest the loss of adequate lift was due to the added weight of the dosimeter payload and the increasing temperature of the air inside the facility due to radioactive decay. Although the prototype drone was not retrievable, the drone’s wireless transmission system successfully transmitted the radiation measurements to engineers outside of the facility.

MONITORING OF GROUNDWATER CONTAMINATION WITH TRITIUM AFTER A RADIATION ACCIDENT AT A RADIOACTIVE WASTE DISPOSAL SITE

The article analyses the data of long-term monitoring of the level of tritium contamination of groundwater in the area of the radioactive waste disposal site. Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, a soft beta emitter. The impressive effect of tritium is due to the biological significance of the molecules into which it incorporates. Radioactive waste storage facilities store a lot of tritium-rich radioactive waste of various origins, a potential tritium source entering the natural environment. Any tritium released appears as tritium water (water that contains tritium in its molecules). Nowadays, the problem of tritium contamination of water ecosystems in the radioactive waste storage facilities’ areas can be considered one of the main issues in radioecology. The study aims to assess the level of safety of underground water in the radioactive waste disposal site area by the level of tritium content based on long-term monitoring data. The object of the study was the content of tritium in the underground water of the first aquifer in the territory of the radioactive waste disposal site (strict regime zone, sanitary and protective zone, and in underground waters of wells outside and in surface water bodies of the natural environment). We tested the tritium activity in water samples using the Triathler 425-034 liquid scintillation radiometer. In 1997, a radiation accident occurred at the radioactive waste disposal site. It led to the penetration of tritium into the first aquifer. Work has been underway to eliminate the accident. Modernisation of the system of wells for monitoring the underground water tritium contamination level also took place. As a result of the performed works, the radiation situation in the accident area has stabilised, and contamination of the aquifer due to the inflow of surface contaminated water from radioactive waste storage facilities has completely stopped. The results of long-term monitoring of tritium content in water of boreholes and wells and natural objects (reservoirs) located outside the sanitary protection zone of the enterprise showed that 27 years after the radiation accident, the radiation situation in the studied area is stable. The total activity of tritium in the aquifer of the monitoring wells is decreasing and has now reached the regulatory level in all but three wells. The concentration of tritium in underground waters (wells) and surface waters (reservoirs) outside the sanitary and protective zone has never exceeded the environmentally safe level during the monitoring period. At present, 89% of the studied monitoring sites (boreholes, natural reservoirs, wells) have tritium content that is within the environmentally safe range. Keywords: radioactive waste disposal site, radiation accident, tritium, aquifers, monitoring, environmental safety.

Optimization And Implementation of Waste Management Planning on Indonesian Flag Non-Convention Ships Sailing in Indonesian Waters

Abstract Waste is one of the objects of concern on ships, especially in terms of its storage and disposal, where more attention must be given to all ships with a gross tonnage of one hundred or more. Every ship certified to carry fifteen people or more, and every fixed or floating platform must have a waste management planning on ship, which includes written procedures for minimizing, collecting, storing, processing and disposing of waste including the use of equipment on the ship. In discussing this material, the researchers analyze the procedures and handling of waste disposal on Indonesian-flagged non-conventional ships. The method used in this research was the case research method. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews and library research methods. The research results show that on Indonesian-flagged non-conventional ships entering the Port of Makassar, there was still waste thrown into the sea, especially by crew members who did not comply with the waste management procedures regulated in The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships Annex V. Ships - Non-conventional ships had not handled waste in accordance with The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships 73/78 regulations due to various factors, one of which is that there is no equipment for handling waste in the ship and the lack of understanding of ship crew members in protecting the maritime environment. It is recommended that the company supervise the handling of waste in the ship and on the other hand, the port management must prepare waste storage facilities.

Екологічні аспекти відновлення довкілля: комплексний спосіб дезактивації радіоактивно забруднених ґрунтів

The purpose of the research: development and development of a new effective method of decontamination of radiation-contaminated soils to reduce the negative impact of radionuclides on the environment and human health. Research materials and methods: The research object is sandy soil contaminated with radiocesium. Research methods are applied - X-ray diffractometry, dispersion analysis, gamma spectrometry. Results: a complex method for cleaning of radioactively contaminated soil is proposed, which combines plasma-chemical treatment of the «soil – water» suspension with subsequent separation of the cleaned soil and coagulation-sorption cleaning of the formed supernatant. The supernatant contains a dispersion in the aqueous phase of micro- and nanoparticles that contain radioactive substances. The principle of heterocoagulation was used for the deposition of the solid phase, which reduces the migration of radioactive particles into the dispersion medium, using a positively charged colloid of iron hydroxide (III) as a coagulant. For deactivation of the liquid phase of the supernatant, a complex sorbent based on iron hydroxide micro- and nanoparticles modified with nickel-potassium ferrocyanides and highly dispersed layered aluminosilicates was used. At the same time, the degree of decontamination of the soil is 91.6%, and that of the supernatant is ≈98%. This method allows to get purified soil that can be used in soil reclamation processes, as well as purified water. Multiple use of process water is envisaged, which prevents additional contamination of the environment with radioactive substances. Radioactive sludge is suitable for compaction and further storage in radioactive waste storage facilities. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, a new effective method of soil decontamination was developed and worked out, which is an effective and promising approach in combating the consequences of accidents at nuclear power plants and other sources of radiation pollution. It allows to effectively remove radioactive substances from soil and water, reducing the negative impact on the environment and human health. The main advantages of the method are its high efficiency, the possibility of reusing process water, as well as reducing the amount of radioactive waste that requires further treatment and storage. The proposed approach is an important step in preserving ecosystems and ensuring the safety of life and health of the population.

THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENT IN THE SYSTEM OF ENSURING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT UNDER THE PRISM OF MODERN CHALLENGES

The article substantiates the importance of the ecological component in the system of sustainable development goals. The powerful potential of Ukraine's ecosystem and environmental problems, problems of ensuring an ecologically safe environment for people's life and health are outlined. Global challenges for ecosystems are characterized (destruction of the ozone layer of the atmosphere, global climate changes, melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, harmful emissions, air and ocean pollution, drinking water problems, etc.). The significant negative impact of the Russian Federation's war against Ukraine on the environment is described. Environmental threats from nuclear energy manipulations are singled out; from waste storage facilities, coal mines, chemical plants and other branches of heavy industry, especially those located in the zone of active hostilities. It is noted that the destruction/damage of water supply systems, sewage and waste storage facilities, etc. provoke significant damage with long-term consequences for the environment and human health. It is founded that most problems of environmental direction are problems of a global level. Directions for achieving climate neutrality within the framework of the European Green Course are indicated. The results of Ukraine in achieving climate neutrality are analyzed. The state and problems of environmental protection financing are analyzed. It was found that in the structure of expenditures from the state budget of Ukraine for all types of financing of environmental protection measures, current expenditures significantly prevail over capital investments. In the structure of current expenses, the largest share is spent on waste management. It is noted that since the beginning of the full-scale war of the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine, the amount of funding for environmental protection has significantly decreased, which is justified by the great need for defense funding. It is founded that the transition to a climate-neutral economy is a challenge for the modernization of economic sectors, requires a rethinking of the role of each member of society, but is at the same time an opportunity to ensure development based on the principles of sustainability. A system of measures to protect the environment and ensure environmental safety is outlined.

Evaluation of the Permeability of Clay-Lime Mixtures for Hazardous Waste Insulation Barriers, Case of Southern Algeria (Adrar)

Containment of hazardous waste is one of the methods that can be used today for its disposal worldwide, especially in landfills. In order to preserve groundwater, landfills are constructed on a natural or reconstituted clay layer of low permeability, known as a passive safety barrier. This paper presents an experimental laboratory study that aims to upgrade local materials for use as a passive barrier in the bottoms of hazardous waste storage facilities (HWSCs). The basic materials are clays from the Adrar region in southern Algeria. An experimental study based on physical-chemical characterization and mechanical tests was performed on 2 samples of clayey soils (AA, Adrar clay, and AB, Bouda clay). Physico-chemical and mechanical characterization of Adrar clay (AA) mixtures with lime was conducted to minimize swelling and improve the studied soil. The permeability criterion allowed the adoption of an optimal mixture of Adrar clay + 6 % lime for a permeability lower than 10–12 m/s. HIGHLIGHTS Ideal solution to protect natural groundwater resources using local materials, clay and lime Large area exceeding 30 km2 of clay sources and including sources of oil pollution Noticeable improvement in clay properties thanks to the addition of lime to reduce swelling The treated clay has a very low permeability value, lower than 10−12 m/s and is ideal for hazardous waste storage centers GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Ecological and Geochemical Characteristics of Potassium Industry Waste

The analysis of the ecological and geochemical characteristics of waste from the extraction and processing of potash salts, which determine the ecological state of the areas of development of these deposits, is carried out. Objects are salt dumps, sludge storages, drainage waters formed on the territory of the Verkhnekamskoye potassium-magnesium salt deposit. Under research of chemical composition of waste and the drainage waters of the sludge storage it was determine that high concentrations of mobile forms of chemical elements in drainage sodium chloride waters of waste storage facilities, an increase in the concentration of nitrogen compounds in filtration waters have been established. The active role of salt solutions in the leaching of clay minerals of salt dumps and sludge dumps, clay protective screens is determined, which leads to active filtration of salt solutions through the bed of the sludge dump, salt dump, migration of microelements in a readily soluble form into the environment.

Experimental study of dust emission intensity from the surface of the alluvium beach

The paper presents data on the current state of waste storage facilities of mining and processing plants in Kryvyi Rih. They are complex, environmentally hazardous hydraulic structures. When assessing the extent of dust pollution from tailing ponds, it is extremely important to know the intensity of dust emissions from the surface of the alluvium beach. This parameter is the basic one in all prognostic models used to predict environmental pollution. The paper presents the results of experimental studies to determine the wind speed at which the removal of dry dust particles from the surface of the beach of a tailing pond begins, as well as the intensity of dust removal from the surface of the beach for dry sand and wet sand. The experimental studies conducted in the laboratory allowed obtaining data on the intensity of dust emission from the surface of the tailing dump beach. The results obtained by the authors make it possible to more accurately assess the degree of environmental dustiness using predictive models. The data on determining the intensity of dust formation for sand of different moisture content will be useful for determining the effectiveness of dust suppression by supplying water to the beach surface.

Radiation-hygienic situation in the area of sublimate production waste storage of JSC “AECC”

In accordance with the fundamentals of state policy in the field of ensuring nuclear and radiation safety, State Corporation «Rosatom» carries out the remediation of JSC “AECC” nuclear legacy sites. The article presents the results of environmental impact assessment carried out in 2021-2023 in the vicinity of sublimation waste storage facilities that are being decommissioned. Health physics studies involved ambient dose rate measurements, sampling (soil, groundwater) and analysis of radiological and non radiological environmental pollutants. The external gamma dose rate, as well as content of natural and artificial radionuclides in soil, don’t exceed background levels. While uranium presence in groundwater is found to be 10 times and higher then background level. The data obtained indicate that the accumulated wastes of sludge sumps (bottom sediments, pulp) сome into contact with natural water. Flooded storage facilities form a plume of contamination spreading out in the direction of groundwater flow. Given the current situation optimization of the existing environmental monitoring programs in the JSC “AECC” health protection zone is recommended and reference levels of uranium proposed.

Monitoring moisture dynamics in multi-layer cover systems for mine tailings reclamation using autonomous and remote time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography

The dynamics of moisture content in cover systems constructed on mining wastes were monitored at the pilot scale using 2D autonomous, remote, and non-invasive time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography combined with conventional point sensors. A methodology was proposed to process the daily hydrogeophysical datasets from 23 m-long instrumented sections of covers with capillary barrier effects (CCBEs) designed to act as oxygen barriers, and covers with low saturated hydraulic conductivity layers (LSHCCs) designed to limit the water infiltration rate. Hydrogeophysical monitoring suggested that CCBEs were able to maintain high degrees of saturation in the moisture-retaining layer throughout the one-year monitoring period, which would make it an efficient oxygen barrier. Larger spatio-temporal changes in moisture content were observed in LSHCCs and most of the low hydraulic conductivity layers remained below 85% saturation, which was attributed to the combined effect of low precipitation, rapid vegetation development, and water percolation through the cover. The methodology proposed in this pilot-scale "proof-of-concept" study allowed the hydrogeological behavior of the cover systems to be monitored in the 23 m-long instrumented sections using continuous geoelectrical data, which demonstrated that this innovative monitoring technique could be useful for geochemical and geotechnical monitoring programs in large-scale mining waste storage facilities.