Using Piezocone Tests for Analysis of Phreatic Water Conditions and Prediction of Soil Behavior in Tailing Dams

In this work the possibility of identifying two important aspects in process adopting soil parameters for calculating stability analysis models tailing dams is discussed. The use commercial computer programs calculations allows obtaining numerically exact results. Its representativeness, however, will be linked to correct definition phreatic regime and prediction volumetric behavior during shearing (contractile vs. dilating materials). theoretical principles selection soils different failure are briefly presented. Also, how incorrect assumptions regarding material can significantly affect estimation dams’ stability. results CPTu tests diagnosis mechanical condition materials discussed examples presented remark on care that should taken avoid adoption.