Rheology of mine tailings deposits for dam break analyses

Abstract This article deals with the rheology of tailings deposits related to dam break analysis. The material used was a fine tailings from iron ore processing. Geotechnical and rheological characterization of these tailings were performed. The rheological characterization consisted of rotational and oscillatory tests. It was observed that the rheological properties depend on material solids content and sample preparation method. Furthermore, the material showed viscous or viscoplastic fluid behavior, depending on the solids content. The results of the rheological tests were used as input in ...