The internet of things (IOT) and cloud computing (CC) based tailings dam monitoring and pre-alarm system in mines

Tailings disposal is a significant consideration for the mining industry, with the majority of the ore processed in most mining operations ending up as tailings. Several tailings dam failure accidents have occurred during the past few years and mine tailings dam failures, which are disastrous with the serious damage and the loss of lives, are occurring at relatively high rates. To improve the tailings dam safety, a tailings dam monitoring and pre-alarm system (TDMPAS) based on the internet of things (IOT) and cloud computing (CC) is accomplished with the abilities of real-time monitoring of the saturated line, impounded water level and the dam deformation. TDMPAS has helped the mine engineers monitor the dam safety 24/7 and acquire pre-alarm information automatically and remotely in any kind of weather conditions. TDMPAS has been applied in several mines and has demonstrated the feasibility of monitoring the tailings dam physical condition.

► Tailings dam failure is disastrous with the serious damage and the loss of lives. ► A tailings dam monitoring and pre-alarm system (TDMPAS) has been developed. ► TDMPAS is based on the internet of things (IOT) and cloud computing (CC) framework. ► TDMPAS can monitor the saturated line, impounded water level and the dam deformation. ► TDMPAS has been demonstrated it is useful to monitor tailings dam safety condition.