Computer Analysis of Seepage and Groundwater Response Beneath Tailings Impoundments

摘要

Research was undertaken to determine the possibility of using a computer model to estimate the seepage rates from tailings impoundments. The tailings must be disposed of in an environmentally acceptable manner. Techniques developed by others were modified and combined with an existing computer model for saturated groundwater flow. This computer program is capable of simulating seepage from the impoundment, groundwater response beneath the impoundment, and the effects of previous seepage on the calculation of the subsequent seepage rate. The model, is general, allowing for spatial variations of hydraulic properties, complex impoundment geometry, and arbitrary initial conditions. The model analyzed a few simple problems with encouraging results and acceptable data requirements.