A process for dewatering slimes (1) produced in mining and mineral processing operations whereby wet oxidation at 150-320°C renders the solids (11) rapidly settleable. Sufficient oxygen (5) is supplied to meet or exceed oxygen demand. Inorganic solids (11) in the oxidized product are separated and optionally further dewatered to a friable solid. Clarified water (12) is recycled to the mining or processing operations, as is steam resulting from the wet oxidation.
展开▼
