Mining tailings waterproofing membranes

Tailings dams and containment basins in mining operations require robust waterproofing to prevent groundwater contamination by tailings — some containing heavy metals, cyanides and other environmentally critical compounds. After the Mariana (2015) and Brumadinho (2019) disasters, the global mining industry underwent severe regulatory tightening, with growing requirements for multiple containment barriers and continuous monitoring. Waterproofing membranes are a critical component of these barriers. Spray-applied PU competes with traditional geomembranes (HDPE, PVC, EPDM) offering advantages in specific applications: capability to apply in complex geometries (without welded joints that are failure points), direct adhesion on concrete and geotextiles, adaptability to irregular topographies, possibility of localized in-situ repair. Secondary applications: drainage channel lining, protection in heap leach piles, waterproofing of emergency containment basin bottoms.