Tailings basins and dry-stacks constitute a micro-environment comparable to natural beaches and natural river delta systems. Sophisticated three dimensional numerical models are available for simulating these natural systems. Extension of these models to slurries to include rheology, channelization, etc., offers the opportunity to answer questions regarding capacity (fines capture, segregation, and deposit composition), water management, and safety of tailings management. This paper describes 1) the fundamental rheological models of slurries that are being included in an existing river and coastal sediment morphological model to capture beach and delta-formation (i.e. Delft3D numerical modeling suite, developed and maintained by Deltares), and 2) preliminary model results from one-dimensional test runs. The water content with respect to the fines (carrier fluid) controls the rheology, which is augmented by adding coarse solids. Three different existing rheological formulations, from different fields (industrial concentrates, tailings and fluid mud flow in natural environments), are analyzed and compared, showing similarities and differences. One of these is issued here for the first time in its entirety. Results of test runs with the numerical model are summarized. Comparison with a velocity profile measured in discharged tailings shows good agreement.
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