Optimization of disposal areas by studying of the mining rock waste granulometry of an iron mine

Abstract

Usually, the values of the resistance parameters of the material disposed in the mine waste rock piles differ from those that were used in the design phase, so it becomes necessary to know how the resistance parameters are affected by the change in granulometry. The present work aims to evaluate the variations of the geotechnical properties and the effect that causes the scale of the granulometry in the behavior of the sterile rock. An extensive experimental program, including laboratory testing techniques and the use of sophisticated equipment, starting with the knowledge of its characteristics, in a vision to improve the implementation of the experimental program, always under international standards, samples obtained from tests were used of physical characterization. The methodology accompanying the behavior of a sample of mine waste rock deposited in sterile waste pile to which was artificially modifying their granulometry unchanged the original design of the granulometric curve was subjecting each specimen tests direct shear to ob tain resistance parameters based on these modifications. The friction angle obtained for these new granulometric correlations was made by processing data with an empirically known relative compactness which highlighted the influence of these parameters of the sterile rock. Impressions and proposals were witnessed and certified quality by their consistency and reproducibility for different granulometries comprised proposals artificially, by its granular material characteristic studied strength parameters obtained from the test run shear it turned proper technique. It is concluded that there is a very close relationship between the reduction of the granulometry and decrease in the value of the angle of friction being these proportional, there being a dependence on the resistance to shear and its diameter of the grain. It is worth highlighting that by carrying out a good analysis and design of a sterile waste pile knowing the correct values ​​of the resistance parameters for its real granulometry, the project will be oriented towards safety and contributing to the reduction of deposit areas, so that the environmental impact will then be minimized.