Lining of mine residue storage facilities

The lining systems used for mine residue (or tailings) storage facilities are not dissimilar to those used for single lined solid waste landfills, although there are currently less regulations driving the specific liner materials used. The logistics of installing lining systems in storage facilities in remote min-ing locations means that forward planning is required and extra care is needed to avoid damage to the lin-er due to climatic effects, such as wind and rain. The QA/QC practices are similar to those used for solid waste landfills. In addition, there is the challenge of keeping material and installation costs to a minimum in line with mining practices. This paper discusses a number of experiences of lining large mine residue storage facilities, especially under tropical conditions, and presents considerations for future lining of mine residue storage facilities.