Cone penetration testing on silty tailings using a new small calibration chamber

Abstract

This study presents the results of the first cone penetration testing on predominately silty gold tailings in a calibration chamber, with results interpreted within the critical state soil mechanics framework. Samples were prepared in a wide range of void ratios, prioritising loose contractive states. The results are presented in terms of the state parameter against the normalised tip resistance and are compared with some common state parameter interpretation screening tools. The modified laboratory equipment, sample preparation methods and characterisation of the tested silty tailings are described along with the adapted void ratio tracking method.

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