Delivered for New World Resources, the Antler Project demonstrates MineFill’s expertise in integrating paste backfill and tailings management solutions through detailed testing, engineering analysis and pre-feasibility study development.
Client:
New World Resources
Location:
Arizona, USA
Scope:
Integrated Paste Backfill and Tailings Dry Stack Pre-Feasibility Study
Duration:
8 Months
Budget:
AU$0.4M
In 2024, MineFill Services completed a pre-feasibility study for an integrated paste backfill and dry stack tailings system at the Antler Project in Arizona, USA.
The study investigated opportunities to combine tailings management and backfill production within a single integrated facility. Through detailed geotechnical testing, filtration assessments and engineering analysis, MineFill evaluated the suitability of vacuum belt filtration technology to support both dry stack tailings storage and paste backfill production requirements.
Due to the high sulphur content of the tailings, MineFill also developed a novel binder design capable of achieving the long-term strength performance required for underground backfill operations. The study established the technical basis for future project development while optimising tailings handling and underground paste supply requirements.
Project completed
Project budget
The Antler Project required a solution capable of managing tailings efficiently while providing a reliable source of paste backfill for future underground mining operations.
The project presented several technical challenges, including the high sulphur content of the tailings and the need to evaluate whether filtered tailings could simultaneously support dry stack storage and paste production requirements. Achieving long-term backfill strength performance while maintaining operational efficiency was a critical project objective.
MineFill completed detailed geotechnical investigations, laboratory testing and engineering assessments to evaluate an integrated dry stack and paste backfill facility.
Testing confirmed that moisture levels achievable through vacuum belt filtration were suitable for dry stack tailings management while also providing feed material for paste production. MineFill further developed a specialised binder design tailored to the unique tailings characteristics, ensuring the required long-term strength performance could be achieved for underground backfill operations.
The completed pre-feasibility study demonstrated the technical viability of an integrated tailings management and paste backfill solution for the Antler Project.
The study provided key design parameters, testing outcomes and development recommendations that will support future project planning and engineering activities. The project highlights MineFill’s capability to combine laboratory testing, engineering assessment and operational planning to deliver practical backfill solutions for complex mining environments.
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Talk to MineFill about your next study, EPC project or operational backfill challenge. Our team can support your project from early-stage planning through to complete system delivery.
