GSI offers webinar on geosynthetics in heap leach mining

The Geosynthetic Institute (GSI) will offer a webinar on “Geosynthetic Applications Used in Heap Leach Mining,” on April 26, 2017, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. EDT.

The chemical extraction of precious metals from low grade ore and tailings has been ongoing since the 1950s. Gold, silver and copper are the general targets, wherein heaps of the ore are leached with cyanide or sulfuric acid which gravitationally flows to the base with its dissolved metals and is then collected by a drainage system. A geomembrane must be beneath, or the pregnant leach solution will escape. It is estimated that 40% of geomembranes are being used for this application. In this webinar, the various heap configurations and operations will be described.

The major design issues of geomembrane selection, leach drainage pads, slope and heap stability, liquefaction potential and pond liner decisions will be described. Reflections on the technology, as well as summary, conclusions and recommendations are offered.

The webinar will be taught by Dr. Robert M. Koerner, professor emeritus of civil engineering at Drexel University and director emeritus of the Geosynthetic Institute.

Webinars cost $200.00 for GSI members and $250.00 for nonmembers. Successful completion of a multiple-choice test after the webinar carries 1.5 professional development units.

For more information or to register, visit www.geosynthetic-institute.org/webinar.htm.