Abstract
The use of filtered tailings has gained increasing traction over the past decade, particularly in relatively low-tonnage operations (less than 10,000 tpd), due to its significant advantages over conventional tailings disposal methods.
This technology has been successfully implemented at the Buriticá Project, a 4,000 tpd underground gold operation located in the western Andes of Colombia.
This case study presents the complete life cycle of the filtered tailings co-disposal facility—from design and permitting to construction, operation, and concurrent reclamation. Key focus areas include performance-based design principles aligned with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), geotechnical performance, community engagement, the use of observational methods, and the roles of the Engineer of Record and Accountable Executive in managing a non-conventional facility.
Dewatering, transport, and handling of tailings represented the main challenges during the ramp-up phase. These were addressed through geotechnical investigations and continuous comparison of as-built performance against the original design intent through geotechnical investigations and analysis.
The facility has currently reached approximately 50% of its planned capacity, and an expansion is under consideration. To date, monitoring and instrumentation show an adequate performance of the facility. Progressive closure measures have been implemented on completed slopes and decks, establishing a stable landform suitable for future circular economy initiatives.
Authors
Diego Cobos | President of Colombia, Practice Leader, Principal Geotechnical Engineer
Ana María Ariza | Geotechnical Engineer, SRK Colombia
David Molina | Zijin Mining, Colombia
