Abstract: A method for electrokinetic dewatering of slurries, consisting of parallel electrode pairs suspended in a slurry deposit. Deployment consists of pulling the ends of electrode sections across a deposit. If solar power is used, floating solar panels are connected to electrodes at fixed spacings and deployed concurrently with the electrode assembly. The electrodes are suspended below or above the mudline by floats. By inflating or deflating the floats, the electrode positions are remotely controlled. External sleeves on the electrodes are used to trap and vent gas generated at the electrodes that otherwise might prematurely terminate the dewatering process. An insulated supplementary conductor is intermittently connected to the anode to decrease power attenuation and mitigate the risk of anode failure. Grid power is regulated by a central control system at the edge of a deposit. Solar power is regulated by dispersed control systems on the floating solar panels.

Abstract: An adaptive electrokinetic dewatering system for dewatering slurry and soil deposits, including tailings deposits and a control system therefor. The control system automatically determines an optimal applied power specification, including sets of power parameters to be applied to the deposit being dewatered and when to apply each set of power parameters during the electrokinetic dewatering process. Furthermore, the control system automatically adjusts the applied power specification throughout the course of the dewatering process to account for the changing properties of the deposit. The control system determines the applied power specifications and adjustments to be made to them by simulating the electrokinetic dewatering process using a simulator which incorporates the latest measurements of the electrical, physical and chemical properties of the deposit being dewatered.

Abstract: An adaptive electrokinetic dewatering system for dewatering slurry and soil deposits, including tailings deposits and a control system therefor. The control system automatically determines an optimal applied power specification, including sets of power parameters to be applied to the deposit being dewatered and when to apply each set of power parameters during the electrokinetic dewatering process. Furthermore, the control system automatically adjusts the applied power specification throughout the course of the dewatering process to account for the changing properties of the deposit. The control system determines the applied power specifications and adjustments to be made to them by simulating the electrokinetic dewatering process using a simulator which incorporates the latest measurements of the electrical, physical and chemical properties of the deposit being dewatered.