At the recent Engineering Geophysics Seminar hosted by The South African Geophysical Association (SAGA), Meintjes delivered a technical presentation focused on the design and failure modes of Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFs). The presentation aimed to bridge the gap between geophysics and TSF engineering by providing geophysicists with a clear understanding of how their expertise can be integrated into various stages of TSF lifecycle management, including design, construction, operational phases, and performance monitoring.
The presentation began with a high-level overview of TSFs, emphasising their critical role in the mining industry as engineered structures for the safe storage of mine tailings. Meintjes highlighted the importance of proactively addressing potential issues in TSF design and operation to mitigate risks and ensure long-term stability.
A key focus of the discussion was on the engineering requirements essential for TSF design and management, which could complement geophysical investigations. By outlining these requirements, the presentation provided a framework for geophysicists to identify opportunities where their methods could enhance the understanding of subsurface conditions and contribute to the ongoing monitoring of TSF performance.
