Electrokinetic dewatering of uranium mine tailings

Bench-scale experiments are carried out to evaluate electrokinetic (EK) dewatering of two tailings samples from uranium mines in Northern Saskatchewan. The study includes characterization of tailings, measurement of electrokinetic permeability (k_e), and electrokinetic enhanced gravity dewatering. It is found that tailings containing clay minerals respond well to EK dewatering. Significant EK flow is generated, which can be further enhanced by pH adjustment at anodes. The key parameters, such as density, electrical conductivity, pH, and mineral composition of tailings play dominant roles in the effectiveness of EK dewatering, which should be considered in the design for field applications. (author)