Predicting tailings beach profiles using energy and entropy

Changes in slurry and tailings characteristics brought about through changes in particle size distribution, particle density or plant operation, have effects on tailings dam beach profiles that presently cannot be predicted with any degree of reliability without extensive field trials. This is because all of the established beach profile prediction models require empirical determination of at least one key parameter. Rigorous analysis of beaching problems using classical hydrodynamics is not possible due to the large number of unknowns. Therefore an alternative approach is required if a predictive models is to be developed. This paper will demonstrate the application of energy and entropy maximisation principles to determining the beach profile for a given tailings slurry. The approach has been shown to yield plausible results when applied to large scale situations, but unfortunately still requires the input of empirical data.