MINING - Heap Leach Pad

Brief Introduction

Heap leach pad uses chemical reactions to separate desired minerals from raw ore. It is widely used in modern large-scale mining operations because it produces the desired concentration of target minerals at a lower cost than conventional processing methods. Geosynthetics, as a durable and cost-effective long-term solution, are widely used to construct modern heap leach pads.

These geosynthetic products include geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) for sealing and isolation, geomembranes for low permeability, and geotextiles for protection and filtration. Just above the GCL is a low permeability geomembrane liner for sealing. A geotextile protective layer is placed over the geomembrane to separate the geomembrane from the heap.

Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCLs)

Geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) is a composite liner that is technically better than standard soil. The outer layer of geotextile mainly plays the role of protection and reinforcement. In the middle is the sodium bentonite layer, to provide seepage prevention.

GCL can improve heap leaching economy and environmental performance thanks to its reliable and efficient features. Furthermore, it can significantly reduce costs and shorten installation time.

Geomembrane

HDPE geomembranes offer high chemical resistance, flexibility, and durability. They have excellent resistance to puncture, stress cracking, and harsh chemicals.

Textured geomembrane can enhance the friction characteristics required for slope stability. LLDPE geomembranes can also be used with greater flexibility and elongation.

Geotextile

Polyester continuous non-woven needle-punched geotextile has a high strength-to-mass ratio. They can provide long-term protection for geomembranes in rugged terrain. Polyester and polypropylene staple geotextiles are an alternative.

Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCLs)