Simulation research on the leakage and consolidation process of red mud tailings in karst area

Abstract

[Objective] Studying the seepage and consolidation processes of red mud storage facilities under complex recharge conditions in karst areas is highly significant for preventing and controlling leachate seepage in these regions. [Methods] Using the Zhatang Red Mud Storage Facility in Guizhou as a case study, a self-developed experimental apparatus for simulating consolidation and seepage in tailings ponds was built, and a method was proposed to measure the red mud consolidation process. Simulation experiments on the consolidation and seepage of the red mud storage facility were conducted under three typical conditions: natural consolidation of red mud tailings, lateral groundwater recharge, and surface recharge. [Results] The results show that:(1) Under conditions of seepage without recharge, the red mud gradually completes consolidation within the storage facility, and the leachate is entirely discharged in a short time.(2)Under lateral recharge conditions, the red mud storage facility exhibits typical pore-fracture dual media properties. Groundwater rapidly moves along fractures formed within the facility to various parts, supplying water for the pores in the red mud to absorb. In the presence of lateral recharge, the degree of red mud consolidation decreases rapidly, and the subsequent consolidation process slows down, reaching an equilibrium state of slow or non-consolidation.(3)Under rainfall recharge conditions, the red mud inside the storage facility rapidly infiltrates along fractures. During rainfall recharge, the degree of red mud consolidation decreases rapidly at the initial stage and then remains stable; the consolidation degree is significantly affected by drainage. [Conclusion] Overall, the consolidation and seepage characteristics of red mud within storage facilities under complex recharge conditions in karst areas were investigated, providing support for targeted prevention of leachate seepage.

Keywords

red mud / tailings reservoir / leakage / simulation test / consolidation / rainfall / karst areas / influencing factors