Influence of Fabrics on Compression Mechanics of Iron Tailings

Due to irreparable damages done by the failure of tailing dams to the human, assets and environment which have ultimately resulted in great economic, social and environmental challenges worldwide, investigations into mechanical behaviour of tailings have received some attentions. However, the knowledge and understanding of mechanics of compression behaviour in iron tailings is still limited. This study investigates the mechanical behaviour of tailings in compression considering effects of fabric resulting from sample preparation and the possibility of non-convergent behaviour. This was achieved by conducing series of one-dimensional compression tests in conjunction with index, microstructural, chemical and mineralogical tests. The results show that the effects of fabric resulting from sample preparation is seen. There is presence of parallel and non-unique normal compression lines which is an important feature of transitional mode of behaviour. The behaviour of iron tailings therefore depends on initial specific volume.