For many years co-disposal of waste rock and tailings has been an attractive possibility to improve geotechnical and geochemical stability of waste rock and tailings deposition areas. Although some initial steps were taken via pilot plant trials and small mine implementation of codisposal, the technology has not seen widespread implementation as of today.Codisposal of waste rock and tailings has a number of significant advantages such as the ability to store both waste rock and tailings in a single waste impoundment in a stable, low moisture, impermeable mass with the potential for steep slope angles and an efficient use of space. The low permeability reduces the infiltration of water and oxygen, and therefore reduces the potential for acid generation and seepage.The major impediment to codisposal systems has been the technical challenges and capital cost associated with the mixing and placement of tailings and waste rock. However, there have been recent developments in equipment design as well as new processes that can reduce the cost of the mixing and placement and make the potential use of codisposal a cost effective solution. When combined with the inherent technical advantages such as increased geotechnical and geochemical stability and negligible risk of high consequence dam failure, codisposal is emerging as a cost effective option and best available practice for mine waste disposal.This presentation discusses the theory behind co-disposal, reviews pilot and case studies as well as a look ahead into the future of co-disposal
