The Use of Crushed Aggregate for the Construction of Filtration Embankments of Sedimentation Basins

Abstract

This publication discusses the concept of a hydrotechnical filtration structure in an open-pit mine extracting below the groundwater table. A phenomenon associated with mining, which is unfavourable for the aquatic environment, is the migration of fine rock fractions into the water discharged from the mine. Usually, their treatment from suspended solids takes place in settling ponds located outside the mining area. In this study, the construction of a sedimentation basin with an embankment at the lowest level of the mining operation was considered. This will enable the sediment to be pre-captured before being discharged outside the mining area and reduce the environmental risk ‘at the source’ of the pollution. It has also been proposed to construct a hydrotechnical structure made of natural filtering materials that are the product of processing crushed stone. The results of the analysis of water filtration through the embankment body and the extent of the impact of the resulting water damming in the lowest part of the quarry are also discussed.