Tailings beach slope prediction: A new rheological method

A new semi-empirical model for tailings beach slope prediction is presented. The model is based on existing non-Newtonian rheology theory combined with some well-established turbulent channel flow equations. It is shown that solid particles do not deposit from the self-formed channels of the tailings slurry as it flows down the beach, and that the slope of the beach is dictated by the channel slope, which is set by the flow parameters and the rheological parameters of the slurry. Two experimental programmes have taken place at tailings storage facilities in Australia, with the experimental results providing validation for the model.