British Columbia Mine Reclamation Symposium

Oil sands tailings technology : understanding the impact to reclamation Mamer, Melinda

Abstract

Managing tailings is a critical component in the development of oil sands mines; the choice of tailings technology impacts reclamation schedules and outcomes. When tailings are released to a pond, a layer forms called Mature Fine Tailings (MFT) which is made up of fine clay particles suspended in water. The challenge is that MFT do not settle within a reasonable timeframe. As a result, Suncor has needed more and larger oil sands tailings ponds to store MFT over the years. In the 1990s, Suncor Energy pioneered consolidated tailings technology to accelerate the consolidation of MFT. Tailings Reduction Operations (TRO) is a new approach to tailings management. TRO is the process of mixing MFT with a polymer flocculent, then depositing it in thin layers and allowing it to dry. This new process has significant benefits such as: accelerating reclamation, reducing the need for more tailings ponds and reducing the existing inventory of MFT. Suncor began reclamation of tailings in 1971 with varied success. The development of Consolidated Tailings technology required new reclamation techniques and resulted in significant research. Examples of existing tailings reclamation will be discussed. The impact of TRO on reclamation schedules and closure plans will also be discussed.

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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International