Study of the hydraulic properties of slate processing fines and fitting to Van Genuchten’s model
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21701/bolgeomin.120.1.006Keywords:
mining wastes, permeability, porosity, roofing slate, water holding capacityAbstract
Slate processing fines could be used as surface material for the revegetation of slate dumps and tailings, because their properties are compatible with plant growth. Yet, the study of their hydraulic properties (water holding capacity and permeability) is essential for knowledge of processes such as water movement and solute transport, water supply to plants during restoration and stability of dumps against erosion. In this work, the moisture retention characteristic and saturated hydraulic conductivity of the slate processing fines have been determined, and the pore size distribution and unsaturated hydraulic conductivity have been derived from the equations of Van Genuchten. The water holding capacity of the slate processing fines is higher than other mining wastes, but the retention at high suction values is very low, which is linked to the low number of pores under 5 μm. Their hydraulic conductivity is low, and remains unchanged between saturation and field capacity conditions. Thus, a strict control of moisture (around field capacity) is needed for the success of revegetation, because the homogeneity of pore sizes causes the quick pass from water-logged asphyxiating conditions to extreme dryness.
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