Mining and AML Polyurethane Foam or PUF is a lightweight, inert and impervious material. PUF has a high Strength-to weight ratio and very good adhesive and tensile properties. It does not shrink and will not fail under its own weight. PUF is very simple to use, requiring a minimum amount of equipment and training. PUF stays liquid for several minutes and flows to completely fill voids, joint and cracks. This reduces water channels and erosion and provides both adhesive and mechanical bonding to the rock. Foam also prevents features from collapsing, increasing the lie of bat gates, head frames, shaft houses and other surface features. A solid foam plug also eliminates most surface water from entering a mine, dump or ore body, greatly reducing the acid generating potential of a feature.
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Shafts
Compared to steel closures, no cutting or welding is required, reducing equipment and fire danger. PUF does not corrode or rust out. Unlike concrete, PUF can be installed incrementally, with no cold joint issues. No Heavy form work or large heavy trucks are required. There is less surface disturbance with a PUF closure, resulting in a better habitat and lower remedial costs. And once it sets up, PUF will not crack, migrate or erode the way dirt, or rock ore can.
Easy to transport: PUF can be hand carried to a remote site, packed in with animals or flown in by helicopter. Each one-third cubic yard (expanded) bags, weighing about 25 pounds are individually packaged in heavy duty cardboard box, or a 55-gallon drum sets for either hand mixing or machine placement are available.
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Adits
For the closure of adits, polyurethane foam (PUF) offers several advantages over block or rock walls. PUF enables faster installation, provides effective water sealing, and resists erosion. To deter vandalism, PUF plugs can be constructed with increased thickness; they are highly resistant to forceful impact, such as from a sledgehammer. The integration of steel and rock components further enhances security by reducing the likelihood of breaching through digging or cutting. When applied around culvert bat gates, PUF eliminates point loads and reduces the risk of roof collapses that can compromise culverts. Additionally, various expanded sizes are available to facilitate efficient installation.
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Subsidence
Foam provides an effective solution for mitigating environmental risks. A foam plug is often more cost-efficient than traditional backfill, remains stationary, is maintenance-free, and serves as a barrier to prevent exchange between surface water and mine water. Additionally, foam can encapsulate potentially acid-generating waste rock that has been placed in a shaft.
Polyurethane foam (PUF) offers an environmentally responsible method for containing hazards.