Geotechnical Characterization and Sedimentation Behavior of Laterite Slurries
Azam, S
Department of Mining Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Chalaturnyk, RJ
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada

Scott, JD
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada

(Received 11 January 2004; accepted 11 April 2005)

Abstract
Laterites are the main source of economic metals such as nickel and cobalt. In many parts of the globe, these metals are extracted using the pressure acid leach operation. An efficient rate of sedimentation and a high solids content of the material are two prerequisites for this process. To understand the geotechnical behavior of laterite slurries under ambient process conditions, a comprehensive laboratory characterization and sedmentation protocol was developed. Results indicate that due to changes in material characteristics, sedimentation behavior of laterite slurries is improved during the metal extraction process. The rate and concentration of sedimentation are directly related for this class of materials.

Keywords:
laterite, ore, PAL, slurries

Paper ID: GTJ12511
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ12511

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Author Azam, S Affiliation Department of Mining Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada Author Chalaturnyk, RJ Affiliation Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada Author Scott, JD Affiliation Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada Author Azam S, Chalaturnyk RJ, Scott JD Title Geotechnical Characterization and Sedimentation Behavior of Laterite Slurries Symposium , Committee on