Re-design of mine tailings storage facility for Adamus Resources Limited, Ghana

Abstract

The suitability of two alternative designs, centreline and upstream for the tailings dam raise proposed as options to the existing Class C downstream design at Adamus Resources Limited (ARL) consistent with the Minerals and Mining (Health, Safety and Technical) Regulations, 2012, LI 21822 (64b), was investigated in this research work using Slope/W analysis in the GeoStudio Software. Extensive review of relevant technical information, geotechnical investigations of available construction materials and evaluation of the performance of the existing dam were undertaken. The objective was to obtain viable parameters for subsequent engineering designs consistent with relevant industry standards. The results were used as input data for modelling the two alternative designs of the main southern and northern embankments and to determine material specifications for construction. The modelling outputs yielded reliable Stability Factors of Safety (FoS) for both alternatives investigated and further provided insights for comparative suitability evaluations to select the preferred raise re-design. The comparative evaluation matrix used to justify the preferred option was based on current company objectives, outcomes of design modelling, relevant literature and industry best practice. It is noted that the upstream design showed lower overall ranking in spite of its distinctive business appeal in terms of superior economic and environmental factors. Based on the research scope, methods and outcomes of various analyses of the study, the centreline design is the most feasible alternative method recommended for adoption by AGL in future TSF raise developments.