The methodology for mine closure with geosynthetics applied in Brazil

Abstract

Industrial and mining activities, exploring and processing minerals, often require specific treatment processes to avoid the generation of contaminants, as is the case with acidic waters, resulting from the contact of precipitation with the material to be treated. Therefore, closure projects are carried out, which require environmental treatment, a covering, so that the structure can be integrated into the environment. Therefore, there is a need to find alternatives to conventional systems for using natural materials for closing covers, due to the magnitudes involved in these projects, as well as the scarcity of natural material, considering the use of geosynthetics for this type. of solution. Thus, it is demonstrated how geosynthetics work in these structures, providing chemical, physical and biological stability to the scenario where it can often be an arduous task to ensure them with conventional solutions, resulting in an advantageous solution in technical and economic terms. Such factors are demonstrated methodologies developed for the application of geosynthetics used in coverage, which led to the elaboration of several projects to be carried out in Latin America in recent years, with practical examples completed in Peru. In this scenario, aiming to expand the application of the methodology, its peculiarities are addressed, aimed at application in tropical countries where, typically, there are effects generated by excessive precipitation, one of the main adverse agents to be considered, as is the case in Brazil.