Leveraging active-source seismic data in mining tailings: Refraction and MASW analysis, elastic parameters, and hydrogeological conditions

We applied active-source seismic method for the interpretation of elastic parameters in tailings facilities which is essential for evaluating stability and seismic response. The methodology uses different analysis methods on the same dataset, i.e., conventional seismic refraction (SR) to determine compressional-wave velocity (Vp) and multichannel analysis of surface wave (MASW) to estimate shear-wave velocity (Vs). Seismic velocities in conjunction with tailings physics approach revealed interpretable data in terms of elastic parameters and hydrogeological conditions. The results determined the empirical linear relationships between Vp and Vs that are particular to an unconsolidated media such as tailings and showed that variability of hydrogeological conditions influences the elastic seismic response (Vp and Vs) and the elastic parameters. The analysis of the elastic parameters identified the state condition of the tailings at the time of the survey. The Bulk modulus K that relates the change in hydrostatic stress to the volumetric strain was predominant between 1.0−2.0 GPa. The Young’s modulus E in the tailings media was in the low range of 0.15−0.23 GPa. Poisson’s ratio values in all sections were in the upper limit in the range of 0.37−0.49, meaning that the tailings media is highly susceptible to transverse deformation under axial compression.