The 4th international TECH MINING Siberia conference is taking place in Krasnoyarsk, where specialists in the mining industry are sharing experience and discussing the latest technologies. Innovations in environmental protection have become an important topic of the conference.
One of the conference speakers was Sergey Nikolaevich Dolgikh, Head of the Hydrotechnical Structures Research Sector at the Yakutniproalmaz Institute of AK ALROSA (PJSC), who presented a report entitled «Best Available Technologies for Tailings Storage».
The speaker discussed a new method of storing production waste — using geotubes, large containers made of woven geosynthetic fabric. This method minimises environmental risks, reduces the required land area and storage volumes, and lowers the facility’s operating costs.
Geotubes can be used in various fields, including industry, hydraulic engineering, environmental rehabilitation of water bodies, and wastewater sludge dewatering.
The speaker also noted that using geotubes makes it possible to reuse the plant’s treated process water and store dry tailings in geosynthetic bags that do not pose an environmental threat.
Sergey Nikolaevich concluded his report by stating that the main advantage of the dry tailings storage method using geotubes is its rapid implementation without the need for costly surveys or capital investment. In addition, the project is not required to undergo state expert review.
Following the event, participants noted the need for further development and implementation of advanced tailings storage practices. This will help the mining industry become more environmentally responsible and competitive, while reducing the risks associated with potential environmental disasters.
Thus, the conference was an important step towards the sustainable development of the mining industry.
P.S. Here we have prepared material with recommendations for working with geotubes.
