Capping
nounPronunciation: /ˈkæpɪŋ/
The placement of an impermeable or semi-permeable layer of soil, clay, or synthetic material over contaminated mine waste to prevent water infiltration and contaminant leaching. This engineered cover system isolates hazardous materials from the environment and reduces human exposure.
Plain English
A protective layer placed over mine waste to stop water and contaminants from spreading.
Etymology & History
Usage
"The coal mine reclamation project included capping the tailings pile with six feet of compacted clay and topsoil."
Style guide notes: Use lowercase 'capping' except when starting a sentence; specify capping type when precision is required.
Also known as
Contrasted with
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are used in mine capping?
Common capping materials include compacted clay, geotextiles, synthetic membranes, and top layers of clean soil or topsoil.
How long does a cap system last?
Well-designed caps can remain effective for 25-50 years, though they require periodic maintenance and erosion control monitoring.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Capping design and material selection are core competencies tested in mine reclamation engineering certifications.
Required skill level: Mid