Waste Rock Cover System Modelling, Data Review & Geotechnical Memo

project overview

Integrated Sustainability delivered a phased geotechnical review to support design and placement of cover systems over mine waste rock and saturated waste rock fills. The work combined historical borehole analysis, desktop stability modelling, and material property evaluation to guide construction planning. Investigations focused on defining viable capping strategies that reduce contact water generation and support hydraulic performance modelling under closure conditions.

project deliverables

• Reviewed historical geotechnical and hydrologic data to define cap thickness requirements, slope geometries, and hydraulic conductivity assumptions for mine closure design.
• Identified and evaluated local clay-rich borrow materials using grain size distributions and permeability correlations based on fines content.
• Developed conceptual capping strategies, including staged construction approaches and single- and double-layer cover systems with internal drainage features.
• Mapped the extent of clay deposits and interpreted subsurface depths using historical test pit and borehole information.
• Prepared a targeted geotechnical investigation plan, including recommended borehole locations and laboratory testing programs.
• Summarized slope stability considerations and foundation behavior to support cover placement, grading design, and long-term closure performance.