Applications of classic and advanced constitutive models in tailings practice

A typical upstream tailings storage facility (TSF) cross-section was evaluated using three constitutive soil models; Mohr-Coulomb, Modified Cam Clay and P2PSand, to numerically represent behaviour of stored tailings. The cross-section was developed using FLAC3D. Three unique tailings types obtained from different sites were evaluated, each with a defining soil classification of predominately sand, silt or clay. The results of advanced geotechnical laboratory testing, including suites of critical state triaxial testing and consolidation testing were used to calibrate the three constitutive models for the selected tailings. Each tailings type was modelled in the typical cross-section using each of the three constitutive models. Key elements were evaluated to ascertain the potential limitations and benefits of each of the constitutive models and the potential implications when applied in tailings design and practice.