CA3042450C

CA3042450C - Automated methylene blue index analysis of tailings materials

Info

Publication number: CA3042450C
Application number: CA3042450A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Syed Khurram Rizvi; Laura Ortiz
Original assignee: Suncor Energy Inc
Current assignee: Suncor Energy Inc
Priority date: 2019-05-07
Filing date: 2019-05-07
Publication date: 2021-07-13
Anticipated expiration: 2039-05-07
Also published as: CA3042450A1

Abstract

An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer can include a sample holder to receive clay-containing samples, such as tailings; a methylene blue (MB) container; a preparation assembly to provide mixing, dispersion, pH adjustment and temperature control prior to and/or during titration; an addition mechanism for adding MB increments to produce a titration sample; a mixer for mixing the titration sample; a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material, which can be reusable, to form a spot; a digital camera to acquire a digital image of the spot; and an image processor to receive the digital image, determine color and dimensional properties of the spot image, determine whether titration is complete based on the color and dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the sample. Analysis methods are also described.

Description

AUTOMATED METHYLENE BLUE INDEX ANALYSIS OF TAILINGS MATERIALS
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The technical field generally relates to automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis of tailings, such as mature fine tailings (MFT), and more particularly in the context of tailings flocculation and dewatering operations.
BACKGROUND

[0002] Tailings derived from mining operations, such as oil sands mining, are often placed in dedicated disposal ponds for settling. The settling of fine solids from the water in tailings ponds is a relatively slow process. Over time, a layer of mature fine tailings (MFT) having relatively high solids and clay content can form in the pond. MFT
has slow consolidation rates and can be challenging to dewater.

[0003] Some techniques have been developed for treating MFT and other tailings materials. For example, MFT can be retrieved from the pond and subjected to flocculation followed by sub-aerial deposition for dewatering. The flocculant added to the MFT can be doses on a clay basis to enhance performance of the dewatering process.
Measuring clay content of the MFT can be a useful step on which to base flocculant dosage.

[0004] Methylene blue index (MBI) is a titration test result that can be useful as an indication of clay content or activity in a sample. MBI has been used to provide information about certain clay-containing materials.
SUMMARY

[0005] An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer and analysis method are provided for analyzing samples of tailings material or other clay-containing materials.

[0006] In some implementations, the automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples comprises a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample; a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB; a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH adjustment and temperature control prior to and/or during titration; an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample; a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT
titration sample; a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample; an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material; a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot, the digital image comprising color properties including hue and chroma and dimensional properties including contour boundaries of the spot;
and an image processor coupled to the digital camera. The image processor is configured to receive the digital image of the spot; determine hue and chroma of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region;
determine contours of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region; identify transition points of the hue, chroma and contour boundaries between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region; determine transition point values for each of the identified transition points; compare the transition point values with corresponding calibration values or pre-assigned values; provide a signal to continue MB
titration of the MFT sample if the transition point values do not substantially match the calibration values or pre-assigned values; and provide a signal to cease MB titration of the MFT
sample if the transition point values do not substantially match the calibration values or pre-assigned values which indicates that the titration is complete, thereby providing MBI
data for the MFT sample.

[0007] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing MFT samples, comprising a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample; a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB; a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT
sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH
adjustment and temperature control prior to and/or during titration; an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample; a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT
titration sample; a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample; an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT
titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot, the digital image comprising color and dimensional properties; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera. The image processor is configured to receive the digital image of the spot; determine color properties of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region;
identify transition points of the color properties between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region;
determine a first value for the transition point between central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, a second value for the transition point between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and a third value for the transition point between the water mark region and the background region; average the first and second values to produce a first averaged value, and compare the first averaged value with a corresponding first calibration value; average the second and third values to produce a second averaged value, and compare the second averaged value with a corresponding second calibration value; determine dimensional properties based on contour boundaries of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region; generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the first and second averaged values substantially match the corresponding first and second calibration values or pre-assigned values, and/or if the dimensional properties match corresponding calibration or pre-assigned values; and generate a signal to continue MB
titration of the MFT sample if the first and second averaged values do not substantially match the corresponding first and second calibration values or pre-assigned values, and/or if the dimensional properties do not match corresponding calibration or pre-assigned values.

[0008] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples, comprising a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample; a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB; a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH adjustment and temperature control prior to and/or during titration; an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB

container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample; a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT titration sample; a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT
titration sample; an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material; a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to receive the digital image of the spot, determine color and dimensional properties of the digital image of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on the color and dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the MFT sample, thereby providing MBI data for the MFT
sample.

[0009] In some implementations, the sample holder comprises a cup, a vial or a sealed vessel. The sample holder can be configured to receive the MFT sample from a pipeline flow of the MFT. The sample holder can be configured to receive the MFT
sample from a tailings pond.

[0010] In some implementations, the MB container comprises a cup or a sealed vessel. The addition mechanism can include a robotic arm configured to engage the MB
container and to dispense the MB increment from the MB container into the sample holder. The addition mechanism can include an MB titration line in fluid communication between the MB container and the sample holder to provide flow of the MB
increment into the sample holder. The addition mechanism can further include pump coupled to the MB titration line for pumping the MB increment there through. The MB container can be positioned above the sample holder to enable gravity to induce the flow of the MB
increment into the sample holder. The addition mechanism can further include an MB
valve disposed on the MB titration line.

[0011] In some implementations, the mixer is configured to engage with the sample holder to provide pre-titration mixing to the MFT sample. The mixer comprises a robotic arm configured to engage the sample holder and provide mixing energy to the MFT
sample. The mixer can be part of the sample preparation assembly.

[0012] In some implementations, the analyzer further includes a sonication unit configured to provide sonication to the MFT sample prior to titration. The sonication unit can be configured to engage the sample holder to provide the sonication to the MFT
sample within the sample holder. The sonication unit can be part of the sample preparation assembly.

[0013] In some implementations, the analyzer further includes a heater configured to provide heating to the MFT sample prior to titration. The heater can be configured to engage the sample holder to provide the heating to the MFT sample within the sample holder. The heater can also be part of the sample preparation assembly.

[0014] In some implementations, the dispenser comprises a syringe. The dispenser can be configured to be engaged by a robotic arm in order to retrieve a portion of the MB-MFT titration sample from the sample holder and then dispense the drop onto the absorbent material.

[0015] In some implementations, absorbent material comprises filter paper.
The filter paper an include a strip of filter paper dispensed from a roll mounted to a spool and being rotatable to provide fresh sections of the filter paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops. The filter paper can alternatively include a circular disk-shaped paper that is rotatable to provide fresh sections of the circular disk-shaped paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops. The absorbent material can alternatively be a reusable material.

[0016] In some implementations, the digital camera is positioned and oriented to capture the digital image of the spot moving the absorbent material from a location where the spot was initially formed.

[0017] In some implementations, the analyzer further includes a light source for illuminating the spot for the digital camera. The light source can be configured to illuminate each spot so that the digital image of each spot has a generally constant lightness. The light source an include a camera flash unit. The light source can also be arranged above the absorbent material. The analyzer can also include a light confinement structure to avoid external light from interfering with the image capture.

[0018] In some implementations, the camera is configured such that the digital image of the spot includes color properties comprising at least hue and chroma. The image processor can be configured to determine the hue and chroma of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region. The image processor can be configured to identify transition points of the color properties between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region. The image processor can also be configured to identify the transition points based on inflection points of the color properties, and to identify the transition points along an x-axis and a y-axis from a center of the spot. The image processor can also be configured to compare the transition points with corresponding calibration values, and to determine whether titration is complete based on such comparison.

[0019] In some implementations, the image processor is configured to determine a first value for the transition point between central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, a second value for the transition point between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region. The image processor can be configured to average the first and second values, and compare the averaged value with a corresponding calibration value. The image processor can also be configured to determine a third value for the transition point between the water mark region and the background region. The image processor can further be configured to average the second and third values, and compare the averaged value with a corresponding calibration value.

[0020] In some implementations, the image processor can also be configured to generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values substantially match the corresponding calibration values. The image processor is configured to generate a signal to pause to allow drying of the spot, so that a dry-spot digital image is acquired and processed. In some implementations, the image processor is configured to analyse the dry-spot digital image in according to a corresponding methodology as the spot, and to generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values for the dry-spot digital image substantially match the corresponding calibration values.

[0021] In some implementations, the image processor is configured to determine contour boundaries between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region. The contour boundaries can then be used to determine the dimensional properties that are used determine whether titration is complete. In some implementations, the image processor is configured to determine respective areas of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region based on the contour boundaries, and wherein the dimensional properties comprise the areas. The image processor can also be configured to use a pre-determined relationship between the areas and titration completion. The pre-determined relationship comprises ratios of the areas.

[0022] In some implementations, the sample preparation assembly is configured for preparing the sample prior to adding the MB increments.

[0023] In some implementations, the sample preparation assembly comprises a pH
adjustment unit for adjusting the pH of the sample to a pre-determined pH
value. The pH
adjustment unit comprises a pH sensor for measuring the pH of the sample. The pH
adjustment unit can include an acid addition device for adding an acid when the measured pH is above 5. The acid may be sulfuric acid. The pH adjustment unit can include a base addition device for adding a base when the measured pH is below 3. The base can be caustic. The pre-determined pH value can be between 3.5 and 5 or can be about 4.

[0024] In some implementations, the sample preparation assembly comprises a temperature control unit comprising a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the sample and configured to control the sample temperature at a target temperature during titration. The temperature control unit can include heating means for heating the sample to maintain the target temperature. The heating means can be configured to control the temperature and the target temperature that is between ambient temperature and 50 C.

[0025] In some implementations, the sample preparation assembly comprises a pre-conditioning unit configured to pre-condition the sample to disperse clays therein prior to adding the MB increments. The pre-conditioning assembly can include a mixer and a sonication device.

[0026] In some implementations, the absorbent material is reusable for multiple automated titrations. The analyzer can include a regeneration unit configured for regenerating a used absorbent material to remove the spot therefrom and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.
The reusable absorbent material can be composed of a synthetic polymeric material.
The regeneration unit can include a washing unit for washing the reusable absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a washed absorbent material. The regeneration unit can further include a drying unit for drying the washed absorbent material to produce a dried absorbent material for reuse.

[0027] In some implementations, the analyzer further includes a controller for controlling at least one of the following: quantity of each MB increment that is supplied from the MB container to the sample holder; activation and energy of the mixer;
activation and energy of the sample preparation unit, including one or more of the pH
adjustment unit, the temperature control unit, and/or the pre-conditioning unit; activation of the dispenser; location of the absorbent material relative to the dispenser; activation of the digital camera; activation of each round of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor; cessation of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor; and coordination of movement and timing of components and fluids.

[0028] In some implementations, the analyzer also includes at least one robotic arm configured to manipulate the sample holder, the MB container, the addition mechanism, the mixer, the dispenser, the absorbent material, the digital camera, and/or the image processor.

[0029] In some implementations, the analyzer includes a transmitter configured to receive the MBI data from the image processor, and to transmit the MBI data to a receiver that is part of a downstream system. The downstream system can include an MFT flocculation unit and the MBI data is transmitted to a flocculant injector. The downstream system can also include various other mining processing equipment and/or oil sands processing equipment and/or bitumen extraction units that receive a clay-containing stream and operate at least in part based on clay content of the feed stream.

[0030] In some implementations, the analyzer further includes a support frame that is relocatable to at-line positions along an MFT pipeline.

[0031] In some implementations, there is provided a system for dewatering mature fine tailings (MFT), comprising a flocculant addition unit for adding flocculant into the MFT on a clay basis to produce flocculated tailings; a dewatering unit receiving the flocculated tailings; and the automated MBI analyzer as defined herein, configured to receive MFT samples upstream of the flocculant addition unit; wherein the flocculation addition unit is controlled at least in part based on the MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer. Additional chemical agents can be added to the tailings, such as an immobilization chemical that is added before the flocculant. The dewatering unit can include a deposition beach or cell for sub-aerial deposition of the flocculated tailings (e.g., in thin lifts) or a mine pit for deposition and formation of a permanent aquatic storage structure (PASS).

[0032] In some implementations, there is provided a method for dewatering mature fine tailings (MFT), comprising adding floccuant to the MFT according to a clay-based dosage to produce flocculated tailings; dewatering the flocculated tailings;
adjusting the clay-based dosage based on MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer as described herein. The method can be adapted for the additional of an immobilization chemical and dewatering by deposition in a mine pit or other containment structure to form a PASS.

[0033] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising a sample holder configured to receive and hold the clay-containing samples; a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB; an addition mechanism for adding MB
increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce a titration sample; a mixer for mixing the titration sample; a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the titration sample; an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material; a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to receive the digital image of the spot, determine color and dimensional properties of the digital image of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on the color and dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample, thereby providing MBI
data for the clay-containing samples.

[0034] In some implementations, the sample holder comprises a cup, a vial or a sealed vessel. The sample holder can be configured to receive the clay-containing sample from a pipeline flow of a clay-containing stream. The sample holder is configured to receive the clay-containing sample from a tailings pond. The MB container can include a cup or a sealed vessel.

[0035] In some implementations, the addition mechanism comprises a robotic arm configured to engage the MB container and to dispense the MB increment from the MB
container into the sample holder. The addition mechanism can include an MB
titration line in fluid communication between the MB container and the sample holder to provide flow of the MB increment into the sample holder, and a pump coupled to the MB
titration line for pumping the MB increment there through. The MB container can be positioned above the sample holder to enable gravity to induce the flow of the MB
increment into the sample holder. The addition mechanism can include an MB valve disposed on the MB titration line.

[0036] In some implementations, the mixer is configured to engage with the sample holder to provide pre-titration mixing to the clay-containing sample. The mixer can include a robotic arm configured to engage the sample holder and provide mixing energy to the clay-containing sample.

[0037] In some implementations, the analyzer also includes a sonication unit configured to provide sonication to the clay-containing sample prior to titration. The sonication unit can be configured to engage the sample holder to provide the sonication to the clay-containing sample within the sample holder.

[0038] In some implementations, the analyzer includes a heater configured to provide heating to the clay-containing sample prior to titration. The heater can be configured to engage the sample holder to provide the heating to the clay-containing sample within the sample holder. The heater can be configured to enable temperature control.

[0039] In some implementations, the dispenser comprises a syringe. The dispenser can also be configured to be engaged by a robotic arm in order to retrieve a portion of the MB-MFT titration sample from the sample holder and then dispense the drop onto the absorbent material.

[0040] In some implementations, absorbent material comprises filter paper.
The filter paper can include a strip of filter paper dispensed from a roll mounted to a spool and being rotatable to provide fresh sections of the filter paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops. The filter paper can include a circular disk-shaped paper that is rotatable to provide fresh sections of the circular disk-shaped paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops.

[0041] In some implementations, the digital camera is positioned and oriented to capture the digital image of the spot moving the absorbent material from a location where the spot was initially formed.

[0042] In some implementations, the analyzer includes a light source for illuminating the spot for the digital camera. The light source can be configured to illuminate each spot so that the digital image of each spot has a generally constant lightness. The light source can include a camera flash unit.

[0043] In some implementations, the camera is configured such that the digital image of the spot includes color properties comprising at least hue and chroma. The image processor can be configured to determine the hue and chroma of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region. The image processor can also be configured to identify transition points of the color properties between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region. The image processor can further be configured to identify the transition points based on inflection points of the color properties. The image processor can also be configured to identify the transition points along an x-axis and a y-axis from a center of the spot. The image processor can be configured to compare the transition points with corresponding calibration values, and to determine whether titration is complete based on such comparison.

[0044] In some implementations, the image processor is configured to determine a first value for the transition point between central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, a second value for the transition point between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region. The image processor can be configured to average the first and second values, and compare the averaged value with a first corresponding calibration value. The image processor can also be configured to determine a third value for the transition point between the water mark region and the background region. The image processor can be configured to average the second and third values, and compare the averaged value with a second corresponding calibration value. The image processor can be configured to generate the signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values substantially match the corresponding calibration values. The image processor can also be configured to generate a signal to pause to allow drying of the spot, so that a dry-spot digital image is acquired and processed. The image processor can be configured to analyse the dry-spot digital image in according to a corresponding methodology as the spot, and to generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values for the dry-spot digital image substantially match the corresponding calibration values.

[0045] In some implementations, the image processor is configured to determine contour boundaries between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region. The image processor can also be configured such that the contour boundaries are used to determine the dimensional properties that are used determine whether titration is complete.
The image processor can be configured to determine respective areas of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region based on the contour boundaries, and wherein the dimensional properties comprise the areas. The image processor can also be configured to use a pre-determined relationship between the areas and titration completion. The pre-determined relationship can include ratios of the areas.

[0046] In some implementations, the analyzer also includes a sample preparation assembly for preparing the sample prior to adding the MB increments.

[0047] In some implementations, the sample preparation assembly comprises a pH
adjustment unit for adjusting the pH of the sample to a pre-determined pH
value. The pH
adjustment unit comprises a pH sensor for measuring the pH of the sample. The pH
adjustment unit can include an acid addition device for adding an acid when the measured pH is above 5. The acid may be sulfuric acid. The pH adjustment unit can include a base addition device for adding a base when the measured pH is below 3. The base can be caustic. The pre-determined pH value can be between 3.5 and 5 or can be about 4.

[0048] In some implementations, the sample preparation assembly comprises a temperature control unit comprising a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the sample and configured to control the sample temperature at a target temperature during titration. The temperature control unit can include heating means for heating the sample to maintain the target temperature. The heating means can be configured to control the temperature and the target temperature that is between ambient temperature and 50 C.

[0049] In some implementations, the sample preparation assembly comprises a pre-conditioning unit configured to pre-condition the sample to disperse clays therein prior to adding the MB increments. The pre-conditioning assembly can include a mixer and a sonication device.

[0050] In some implementations, the absorbent material is reusable for multiple automated titrations. The analyzer can include a regeneration unit configured for regenerating a used absorbent material to remove the spot therefrom and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.
The reusable absorbent material can be composed of a synthetic polymeric material.
The regeneration unit can include a washing unit for washing the reusable absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a washed absorbent material. The regeneration unit can further include a drying unit for drying the washed absorbent material to produce a dried absorbent material for reuse.

[0051] In some implementations, the analyzer further includes a controller for controlling at least one of the following: quantity of each MB increment that is supplied from the MB container to the sample holder; activation and energy of the mixer;
activation and energy of the sample preparation unit, including one or more of the pH
adjustment unit, the temperature control unit, and/or the pre-conditioning unit; activation of the dispenser; location of the absorbent material relative to the dispenser; activation of the digital camera; activation of each round of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor; cessation of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor; and coordination of movement and timing of components and fluids.

[0052] In some implementations, the analyzer includes least one robotic arm configured to manipulate the sample holder, the MB container, the addition mechanism, the mixer, the dispenser, the absorbent material, the digital camera, and/or the image processor.

[0053] In some implementations, the analyzer includes a transmitter configured to receive the MBI data from the image processor, and to transmit the MBI data to a receiver that is part of a downstream system. The downstream system comprises a flocculation unit and the MBI data is transmitted to a flocculant injector, or various other pieces of equipment for separating and/or treating the clay-containing process fluid.

[0054] In some implementations, the analyzer includes a support frame that is relocatable to at-line positions along a pipeline that transports a clay-containing stream.

[0055] In some implementations, the comprising at least one robotic arm configured to act as the mixer, the addition mechanism and/or the dispenser. The robotic arm can also be part of the sample preparation assembly or be used in conjunction therewith.

[0056] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MB1) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing color and contour properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the color properties comprises:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based on the color and contour properties of the digital image of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

[0057] In some implementations, there is provided a system for dewatering a clay-containing aqueous material, comprising a flocculant addition unit for adding flocculant into the clay-containing aqueous material on a clay basis to produce flocculated tailings;
a dewatering unit receiving the flocculated tailings; and the automated MBI
analyzer as defined herein, configured to receive clay-containing samples upstream of the flocculant addition unit; wherein the flocculation addition unit is controlled at least in part based on the MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer. The system can also be operated based on an analysis device that implements the MBI analysis method as described herein.

[0058] In some implementations, there is provided a method for dewatering a clay-containing aqueous material, comprising adding floccuant to the clay-containing aqueous material according to a clay-based dosage to produce flocculated tailings;
dewatering the flocculated tailings; adjusting the clay-based dosage based on MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer as described herein.

[0059] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing dimensional properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the dimensional properties comprises:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based on contour properties of the digital image of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

[0060] In some implementations, the method includes assessing color properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, and wherein the processing of the digital image of the spot is further performed based on the color properties. The processing can be performed to determine contour boundaries between regions of the spot. In some implementations, the processing determines contour boundaries between a central region of the spot and an outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and a water mark region, and between the water mark region and a background region. The contour boundaries can be used to determine the dimensional properties that are used determine whether titration is complete. The method can include determining respective areas of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region based on the contour boundaries, and wherein the dimensional properties comprise the areas. The method can also include using a pre-determined relationship between the areas and titration completion. The pre-determined relationship can include ratios of the areas. In some examples, the method can also be performed using the analyzer as described herein.

[0061] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the pH of the sample and adjusting the pH to a pre-determined pH value to provide a pH-adjusted sample;
adding MB increments into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

[0062] In some implementations, the adjusting of the pH comprises adding an acid, e.g., when the measured pH is above 5. The acid can include sulfuric acid.

[0063] In some implementations, the adjusting of the pH comprises adding a base, e.g., when the measured pH is below 3. The base can include caustic.

[0064] In some implementations, the pre-determined pH value is between 3.5 and 5 or is about 4, or another value that is pre-determined and can be based on the operating conditions of the method or analyzer.

[0065] In some implementations, the preparing further comprises measuring a temperature of the sample and controlling the sample temperature at a target temperature, and pre-conditioning the sample to disperse clays therein prior to adding the MB increments. The pre-conditioning can include mixing and sonication.

[0066] In some implementations, the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties. The dimensional properties can include contour boundaries of different regions of the spot. The color properties can include hue and chroma. The dimensional properties can include determined areas of respective regions of the spot.
These properties can be determined and used using various techniques described herein.

[0067] In some implementations, there is provided an automated MBI
analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;

dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto a reusable absorbent material to form a spot;
assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample;
and after titration is complete, regenerating the used absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.

[0068] In some implementations, the reusable absorbent material is composed of a synthetic polymeric material.

[0069] In some implementations, the regenerating comprises washing the reusable absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a washed absorbent material.
The regenerating can further include drying the washed absorbent material to produce a dried absorbent material for reuse. The washing can be performed using wash water;
the drying can be performed using air.

[0070] In some implementations, the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties. The dimensional properties can include contour boundaries of different regions of the spot. The color properties can include hue and chroma. The dimensional properties can include determined areas of respective regions of the spot.
These properties can be determined and used using various techniques described herein.

[0071] In some implementations, there is provided an automated MB1 analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:

preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the temperature of the sample and adjusting the temperature to a pre-determined temperature value to provide a temperature-controlled sample;
adding MB increments into the temperature-controlled sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

[0072] In some implementations, the pre-determined temperature value is between ambient temperature and 50 C. The pre-determined temperature value can be between 20 C and 30 C.

[0073] In some implementations, the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties. The dimensional properties can include contour boundaries of different regions of the spot. The color properties can include hue and chroma. The dimensional properties can include determined areas of respective regions of the spot.
These properties can be determined and used using various techniques described herein.

[0074] In some implementations, the adjusting of the the temperature comprises providing heat to the sample at a heating rate to maintain a constant temperature of the sample. Adjusting the temperature can include providing a first heating to the sample to raise the temperature thereof to attain the pre-determined temperature value prior to adding the MB increments, and a second heating to maintain the sample at the pre-determined temperature throughout titration.

[0075] In some implementations of the methods and analyzer described herein, acquiring the digital image of the spot is performed once the spot has dried.
Alternatively, acquiring the digital image of the spot can be performed while the spot is wet. It is also noted that multiple digital images can be acquired for a same spot in different states, e.g., in a wet state and a dry state, for some or all of the iterations of the titration. When multiple images of obtained for a same iteration, the images can be processed and compared to calibration data for enhanced robustness.

[0076] In some implementations of the methods and analyzer described herein, an optical filter or a software filter is provided to filter the digital image.

[0077] In some implementations of the methods and analyzer described herein, the spot is illuminated with a top light source. The top light source can be controlled to provide constant and uniform illumination. A light confinement structure can also be provided to reduce or avoid light interference.
[0077a] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH
adjustment and temperature control prior to titration or during titration or both;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample;
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20a an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot, the digital image comprising color properties including hue and chroma and dimensional properties including contour boundaries of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to:
receive the digital image of the spot;
determine hue and chroma of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region;
determine contours of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region;
identify transition points of the hue, chroma and contour boundaries between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region;
determine transition point values for each of the identified transition points;
compare the transition point values with corresponding calibration values or pre-assigned values;
provide a signal to continue MB titration of the MFT sample if the transition point values do not substantially match the calibration values or pre-assigned values; and provide a signal to cease MB titration of the MFT sample if the transition point values do not substantially match the calibration values or pre-assigned values which indicates that the titration is complete, thereby providing MBI data for the MFT sample.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20b [0077b] In some implementations, there is provided ann automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH
adjustment and temperature control prior to titration or during titration or both;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot, the digital image comprising color and dimensional properties; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to:
receive the digital image of the spot;
determine color properties of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region;
identify transition points of the color properties between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region;
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20c determine a first value for the transition point between central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, a second value for the transition point between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and a third value for the transition point between the water mark region and the background region;
average the first and second values to produce a first averaged value, and compare the first averaged value with a corresponding first calibration value;
average the second and third values to produce a second averaged value, and compare the second averaged value with a corresponding second calibration value;
determine dimensional properties based on contour boundaries of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region;
generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the first and second averaged values substantially match the corresponding first and second calibration values or pre-assigned values, or if the dimensional properties match corresponding calibration or pre-assigned values, or both; and generate a signal to continue MB titration of the MFT sample if the first and second averaged values do not substantially match the corresponding first and second calibration values or pre-assigned values, or if the dimensional properties do not match corresponding calibration or pre-assigned values, or both.
[0077c] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20d a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH
adjustment and temperature control prior to titration or during titration or both;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to receive the digital image of the spot, determine color and dimensional properties of the digital image of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on the color and dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the MFT sample, thereby providing MBI data for the MFT sample.
[0077d] In some implementations, there is provided a system for dewatering mature fine tailings (MFT), comprising:
a flocculant addition unit for adding flocculant into the MFT on a clay basis to produce flocculated tailings;
a dewatering unit receiving the flocculated tailings; and the automated MBI analyzer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 69, configured to receive MFT samples upstream of the flocculant addition unit;
wherein the flocculation addition unit is controlled at least in part based on the MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20e [0077e] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the clay-containing samples;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB
container into the sample holder to produce a titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to receive the digital image of the spot, determine color and dimensional properties of the digital image of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on the color and dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample, thereby providing MBI
data for the clay-containing samples.
[0077f] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20f dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing color and contour properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the color properties comprises:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based on the color and contour properties of the digital image of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.
[0077g] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing dimensional properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the dimensional properties comprises:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based on contour properties of the digital image of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20g [0077h] In some implementations, there is provided an automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the pH of the sample and adjusting the pH to a pre-determined pH value to provide a pH-adjusted sample;
adding MB increments into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.
[0077i] In some implementations, there is provided an automated MBI
analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20h dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto a reusable absorbent material to form a spot;
assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample;
and after titration is complete, regenerating the used absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.
[0077j] In some implementations, there is provided an automated MBI analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the temperature of the sample and adjusting the temperature to a pre-determined temperature value to provide a temperature-controlled sample;
adding MB increments into the temperature-controlled sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20i processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.
[0077k] In some implementations, there is provided an automated slurry analyzer for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the slurry samples;
a container configured to receive and contain a titration compound;
an addition mechanism for adding increments of the titration compound obtained from the container into the sample holder to produce a titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a sensor positioned in spaced-apart relation relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire digital information regarding the spot;
and a processor coupled to the sensor and configured to receive the digital information regarding the spot, determine at least dimensional properties of the digital information of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on at least the dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue titration of the slurry sample, thereby providing titration data for the slurry samples.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20j [00771] In some implementations, there is provided an automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
adding increments of a titration compound into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing dimensional properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the dimensional properties comprises:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot; and processing the digital light-based information regarding the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based at least on contour properties of the digital light-based information of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample.
[0077m] In some implementations, there is provided an automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
preparing the slurry sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the pH of the sample and adjusting the pH
to a pre-determined pH value to provide a pH-adjusted sample;
adding increments of a titration compound into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20k dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot; and processing the digital light-based information of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample.
[0077n] In some implementations, there is provided an automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
adding increments of a titration compound into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto a reusable absorbent material to form a spot;
assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot;
and processing the digital light-based information regarding the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample;
and Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 after titration is complete, regenerating the used absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.
[0077q] In some implementations, there is provided an automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the temperature of the sample and adjusting the temperature to a pre-determined temperature value to provide a temperature-controlled sample;
adding increments of a titration compound into the temperature-controlled sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot;
and processing the digital light-based information regarding the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0078] Fig 1 is a process flow diagram showing an MFT dewatering operation.

[0079] Fig 2 is a process flow diagram showing an MBI analyzer for analyzing MFT.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05 20m

[0080] Fig 3 is a process flow diagram showing two potential locations for an MBI
analyzer.

[0081] Fig 4 illustrates steps for automated MBI analysis of MFT.

[0082] Fig 5 is a schematic of an MBI analysis system.

[0083] Fig 6 is a schematic illustrating digital spot images.

[0084] Fig 7 is a process flow diagram showing MBI analyzers and multiple tailings ponds.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-10-05

[0085] Fig 8 is a process flow diagram showing MBI analyzers and multiple tailings pipelines.

[0086] Fig 9 is a process flow diagram showing an MBI analyzer and multiple tailings pipelines.

[0087] Fig 10 is a schematic of an MBI analyzer that is at-line and upstream of a flocculant injection unit.

[0088] Fig 11 is a graph of color properties versus pixel number.

[0089] Fig 12 is a schematic illustrating a spot image with regions defined with different contour boundaries and having different areas.

[0090] Fig 13 is a schematic illustrating steps for automated MBI analysis based on color and dimensional properties.

[0091] Figs 14a to 14f are graphical user images from an MBI analyzer.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] Automated MBI analysis of MFT samples facilitates enhanced reliability, consistency and speed in acquiring MBI data that can be used to provide information for an MFT flocculation and dewatering operation, such as informing clay-based dosage of flocculant added to the MFT.
General process overview and implementations

[0093] Referring to Fig 1, an MFT dewatering operation 10 can include an MFT
source 12, such as a tailings pond, from which MFT is retrieved as an in-line MFT
flow 14. The MFT flow 14 can then be supplied to one or more pre-treatment units (not shown) to produce a pretreated MFT stream. The pre-treatment units can include various different units for screening, diluting, pre-shearing and/or chemically pre-treating the MFT. The MFT stream 14 is then supplied to a flocculant injection unit 16 for injecting a flocculant stream 18 into the tailings. The resulting flocculation material 20 can then be subjected to conditioning, which may include pipeline shear conditioning, to form a conditioned material. The conditioned material is then sent to a dewatering unit 22, which may for example be a sub-aerial deposition area, a dewatering device, or an aquatic storage structure. Release water 24 separates from solids-enriched flocculated material 26 and can be used a recycled water for addition to certain pre-treatment units, the flocculant stream, or other unit operations in the associated mining facility.

[0094] Fig 1 also illustrates that the MFT can be monitored using an automated MBI
analyzer 28. The automated MBI analyzer 28 can determine MBI data from MFT
samples 30 that are obtained from the MFT in-line flow 14, from a holding tank, and/or from the tailings pond. The MBI data obtained from the automated MBI analyzer 28 can then be used to control one or more unit operations. For example, flocculant dosage is a relevant parameter for enabling consistent and efficient performance of the flocculation and dewatering of the MFT. Process parameters, such as flocculant concentration in the flocculant stream 18 and the composition of the MFT stream 14 supplied to the injector 16, are relevant to flocculant dosage and thus can be controlled based on the MBl data to provide a desired clay-based flocculant dosage.

[0095] Fig 2 illustrates a scenario where the automated MBI analyzer 28 obtains a sample from a tank 32, and Fig 3 illustrates the scenario where two automated MBI
analyzers 28A, 28B obtains samples from different points in the process. Fig 3 in particular illustrates that the automated MBI analyzers can be provided on upstream and downstream sides of a pre-treatment unit 34 (e.g., dilution unit or another unit that may impact the active clay content of the MFT) to obtain MBI data for the input MFT 14 and the pre-treated MFT 36. Various other configurations are possible where multiple automated MBI analyzers 28 are provided at different locations in the process upstream of the flocculant injector.

[0096] Automated MBI analysis of MFT samples can be particularly advantageous in the context of flocculating the MFT. As MFT that is, for example, retrieved from a pond or another source can have a variable composition including clay content and the clays in MFT have an impact on the flocculation process, MBI data can be used as an input variable to enhance flocculation. Control of polymer flocculant dosing into thick fine tailings (e.g., MFT) is advantageously done on a clay basis, and thus the MBI
of the tailings can provide a useful input for controlling flocculation. Manual methods for acquiring MBI are time consuming and labor intensive and as such cannot easily be implemented at-line for process control, thus reducing the operational efficiency of tailings flocculation and dewatering operations. The automated MBI analyzer instrument can facilitate the capability to control polymer flocculant dosing in flocculation and dewatering operations, by providing reliable and rapid analysis that can be conducted at-line of the tailings pipeline which transports the tailings from the source (e.g., pond) to the flocculation and dewatering operations.

[0097] MBI testing determines the capacity of clay to absorb cations from a solution, and therefore provides an indication of the clay activity. Clays are found in a variety of materials and fluids, including drilling fluids, fracking fluids, binder materials, and a number of mining streams (e.g., mined ore, slurries, underflows, overflows, middlings, and various tailings or byproduct streams) and in situ recovery streams or materials (e.g., production fluid, oil and water streams which are separated at surface, core samples, and blowdown streams from OTSGs or evaporators). The MBI test is based on the cation-exchange capacity of clays, which can vary depending on the type of clay.
MBI is thus an estimate of cation exchange capacity (CEC), although MB
capacity and CEC are not equivalent with MB capacity being typically less than CEC. The reactive or active component of the clays that are involved in cation exchange in the context of the MBI test. The active clay particles/sheets which are negatively charged are coated with the cationic MB dye molecules, which results in a distinct dark blueish color until cation exchange capacity has been reached. Once the cation exchange capacity has been reached, excess MB that is not bound to clay remains in solution and results in a blue-green color that forms a "halo" around the dark blueish spot. Formation of a persistent blue-green halo indicates that the clays have reached their absorption capacity of the MB dye. The MB titration is thus complete and the MBI value can be calculated as follows:
( meg \ ,m1s MB x Normality of MB
MB! ___________________________________________ X100 100g) mass of dried sample (g)

[0098] In the above equation, "mls MB" is the volume of MB used in the titration in milliliters; Normality of MB is the concentration of the MB solution used (e.g., typically 0.006 M); and the units of MBI are milliquivalents (mEq) per 100 g of solids.

[0099] Other clay-related properties can be calculated based, in part, on MBI. For example, surface area of clay particles and weight percentage of clay can be calculated based on certain equations. For example, an equation to estimate surface area of clay particles is:

Surface Area ¨ = MBI X 130 X 0.06022 g

[00100] An equation to estimate weight percentage of clay is:
traLs MB x 0.006 N + 0.04 Wt% Clay ¨ _____________________________________ .x 100

[00101] It should be noted that the MBI values can be used directly in process control and/or can be used to compute or estimate other properties of the MFT
in order to generate variables (e.g., wt% clay, clay surface area) that can be used for process control and/or assessment.
Automated MB1 analyzer implementations

[00102] Referring to Fig 5, the automated MBI analyzer 28 can include several components for automatically titrating MFT samples using image acquisition and processing to provide consistent and rapid MBI data.

[00103] Fig 5 illustrates that the automated MBI analyzer 28 includes a sample holder 38 which receives the MFT sample 30. The sample holder may be a container that may be sealable or open. There may be multiple sample holders for holding multiple samples, dividing a primary sample into multiple sub-samples, and/or transferring a sample to different holders, if desired. The sample holder can include measurement indicia (e.g., for volume) and may be composed of glass or another transparent material although it does not need to be transparent.

[00104] The automated MBI analyzer 28 also includes a mixer 40 that is adapted to engage the sample holder 38 in order to mix the sample and contribute to dispersion of the clays throughout the sample. Dispersion is an important factor in obtaining accurate MBI data. The mixer 40 may include an agitator that is insertable within the sample holder 38 and/or a shaking mechanism that grasps the sealed sample holder and provides back-and-forth movement in order to mix the MFT sample. The mixer 40 can be configured and operated in order to provide a pre-determined mixing time and energy to fully disperse the clays.

[00105] The automated MBI analyzer 28 can also include additional components to contribute to dispersion of the clays throughout the sample. For example, the automated MBI analyzer 28 can include a sonication unit 42 and a heater 44 that are configured and positioned to engage the sample holder 38 to provide sonic waves and heat, respectively. Sonication and heat can help to lower the time required to disperse the clays, and can be particularly advantageous when the MFT sample is cold or has been stagnant. The mixer 40, sonication unit 42, heater 44 can be configured and positioned with respect to the sample holder 38 to be able to engage and disengage when required.
The heater 44 can take the form of a hot plate, a heating jacket, or various other heater constructions. The automated MBI analyzer 28 can also include a pH adjustment unit 45 configured to adjust the pH of the tailings sample.

[00106] The heater 44 can be configured as a temperature regulation unit that includes a temperature sensor and heating means that are configured to control the tailings sample as a relatively constant temperature during the MB titration.
The control temperature can be based on pre-determined temperatures used for calibration, and can be ambient or other temperatures.

[00107] Fig 5 also illustrates that the automated MBI analyzer 28 can include a methylene blue (MB) container 46 which has MB therein. The MB container 46 can be a receptacle that may be sealable or open, and is fluidly connected to the sample holder 38 via an MB titration line 48. The MB titration line can have an MB
valve 50 that can be automatically activated to dispense a pre-determined increment of MB
from the MB container 46 into the MFT sample in the sample holder 38. The MB container can also have a separate mixer or can be engaged by the mixer 40 for ensuring that the MB
is uniform and homogeneously mixed. Various types of dispensers can be used.
Alternatively, a robotic arm can be used to engage the MB container and dispense the desired quantity of MB into the sample holder, e.g., by picking up the MB
container, holding it over the sample holder, and dispensing a pre-determined MB
increment into the sample holder; or by using a robotic arm fitted with a volumetric syringe, that can draw a pre-determined volume of MB and dispense it into the sample holder. In another example, the robotic arm can manipulate a dip stick or a syringe which is dipped into the sample and then placed against the filer paper so that a drop of the mixture touches the filter paper and forms the spot. Various other types of dispensers and dispensing methods can also be used.

[00108] The automated MBI analyzer 28 can also include a syringe 52 or another type of dispensing device in fluid communication with the sample holder 38.
The syringe 52 is configured to receive a MB-titrated sample 54 (i.e., a mixture of the sample and one or more increments of the MB) from the sample holder 38 and dispense the MB-titrated sample 54 onto an underlying absorbent display material 56, which may be filter paper. The filter paper 56 may be provided as a strip that is dispensed from a roll 58 of filter paper 56 mounted to a spool 60 which is controlled to dispense filter paper when needed. Alternatively, the filter paper arrangement could include a circular disc of absorbent material on which the drop of MB-titrated sample could be deposited at different locations, where either the disc rotates or the dispenser moves (e.g., circularly) to provide drops at different locations around the disc of filter paper; and the used filter paper disc is removed to expose a new sheet.

[00109] In some implementations, the absorbent material 56 could be a disposable material such as filter paper and the like. Alternatively, the absorbent material 56 can be reusable such that after use it can be washed, dried and then reused in a subsequent titration test. Reusable absorbent materials can be based on synthetic polymer materials that are absorbent and washable, e.g., using water. Various types of synthetic polymer materials could be used. As shown in Fig 5, the analyzer 28 can include a washing unit 61 that is configured to receive used absorbent material 56 and wash to remove the spot or spots, after which the washed absorbent material can be dried in a drying unit and then reused in a subsequent titration. The analyzer 28 could thus be equipped with both a washing unit and a drying unit to provide regenerated absorbent material for reuse.
There can also be appropriate mechanisms to move the absorbent material from one unit to another, and eventually into position for receiving the MB-sample mixture to form the spot.

[00110] Dispensing of the MB-titrated sample 54 from the syringe 52 forms a spot 62 on the filter paper 56. The spot 62 can then be analyzed automatically using an image acquisition and processing system that includes a camera 64 and an image processor 66. The camera 64 can be positioned above the filter paper 56 to acquire a digital image 68 that includes the spot (i.e., "digital spot image"). The camera 64 can acquire the digital spot image 68 in the same location where the spot was formed which would typically be directly below the syringe 52, thus without moving the filter paper 56, or the camera 64 can acquire the digital spot image 68 after the filter paper 56 is displaced to a location directly below the camera 64 and offset from the syringe drop path (as in Fig 5). The camera 64 can be oriented in the desired manner so that its field of view includes the spot 62 and surrounding unaffected filter paper 56. The camera 64 can include a photosensor array made of a plurality of photosensitive elements configured to generate the digital spot image 68 by detecting the intensity of light originating from within the field of view of the camera 64 and by converting the detected light intensity into electrical data. The photosensor array can be embodied by a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) or a charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor, but other types of sensor arrays could alternatively be used.
The camera 64 can also include a color filter array overlying the photosensor array and configured to selectively filter incoming light according to wavelength to capture color information about the spot 62 and the surrounding unaffected filter paper 56.

[00111] There is also a light source for illuminating the spot for the digital camera.
The light source can be the camera flash. The light source can b e configured to provide illumination that is constant and uniform which can enhance repeatability. A
light measurement system can also be integrated into the analyzer in order to facilitate maintaining constant illumination. The illumination can be provided from the top, although backlighting can also be used. Top lighting was found to reduce noise in the results. In addition, a light confinement structure can be provided to reduce or avoid light interference and to have enhanced illumination control.

[00112] The digital spot image 68 acquired by the camera 64 is sent to the image processor 66. The image processor 66 includes modules for processing the digital spot image 68 in order to determine whether or not the MB titration is complete. If the titration is incomplete, the image processor 66 supplies that information to a controller 70 which can activate further titration of the MFT sample. If the titration is complete, the controller 70 can terminate the titration and can also provide output MBI data 72 which can be displayed, recorded and/or provided to another unit of the overall process (e.g., flocculant dosage controller 74).

[00113] One or more filters can be provided to enhance image and contrast. The filters can be software filters that are part of the image processor, or can be optics filters integrated into the camera, or both.

[00114] Still referring to Fig 5, the controller 70 can be coupled to a number of components of the automated MBI analyzer 28. The controller 70 can activate the components of the analyzer 28 during different stages of the titration to perform different tasks. For example, the controller 70 can be coupled to the mixer 40 to activate mixing prior to the initial addition of MB, and also after each increment of MB is added into the MFT sample. Similarly, the controller 70 can be coupled to the sonication unit 42 and the heater 44 for sonification and heating of the MFT sample, which would primarily occur prior to initial MB addition. The controller 70 can also be coupled to the MB
valve 50 to control the amount of the MB increment and the timing of its addition into the MFT
sample. The controller 70 can also be coupled to the syringe 52 to control the amount of the dispensed sample and the timing of discharging onto the filter paper 56, which should be coordinated with the control of the filter paper roll 58 to ensure that fresh filter paper section is provided for each spot. The controller 70 can also be coupled to the camera 64 to control the position, timing and characteristics of the image acquisition (e.g., lighting, focus, etc.), although such characteristics can be determined and controlled by the camera itself. The controller 70 can communicate with these and other components of the analyzer 28 in order to receive relevant information and activate components in a coordinated and timely manner. The controller 70 can be configured to provide fully automated operation of the analyzer 28.

[00115] If the image processor 66 provides information to the controller 70 that the titration is incomplete, the controller 70 can initiate further titration of the sample by activating the MB valve 50 to provide an additional increment of MB into the MFT
sample, activating the mixer 40 to mix the sample, activate the filter paper mechanism to provide a fresh section of filter paper 56 below the syringe 52, activate the syringe 52 to dispense some of the sample onto the fresh section of filter paper 56 to form another spot, and activate the camera to acquire another spot image 68. The additional spot image 68 will then be provided to the image processor 66 to determine, once again, whether the titration is complete.

[00116] In some implementations, the titration steps are performed serially such that an additional step is not performed unless and until the image processor generates an output that the titration is incomplete. In alternative implementations, a subsequent titration step can be initiated prior to the output regarding whether the titration is complete.

[00117] Referring still to Fig 5, various components of the analyzer 28 may be manipulated by a robotic arm 75 that may be mounted on a frame along with the other components. The robotic arm 75 can be configured and positioned to automatically engage with various components that may be moved with respect to each other, such as the sample holder 38, the mixer 40, the sonication unit 42, the heater 44, the pH
adjustment unit 45, the washing unit 61, and so on. Multiple robotic arms can also be provided for making simultaneous component manipulations. Alternatively, other mechanisms may be provided in place of the robotic arm to provide desired displacement or manipulation of the analyzer components.

[00118] In some implementations, a single unit or component of the automated MBI
analyzer 28 can perform multiple functions. For example, the mixer 40 can have an integrated heater 44 that can be actuated for the initial dispersion of the clays in the MFT
sample, rather than having two distinct mixer and heater components. In addition, the robotic arm 75 can be configured to provide the mixing and thus can act as a displacement mechanism as well as the mixer 40.

[00119] It should be noted that the automated MBI analyzer 28 can include various other components. For example, the automated MBI analyzer 28 can include an acidification unit (not illustrated) which adds acid (e.g., sulfuric acid) to the MFT sample to inhibit the influence of certain compounds that may be present and controls pH
effects. Nevertheless, for MFT samples the clays have been substantially dispersed due to the processing of the oil sands ore in the bitumen extraction operations generating the MFT. Thus, for MFT samples, the pre-treatments required for ensuring adequate dispersion and preparation of the clays are less demanding and extensive compared to other types of samples (e.g., mined oil sands ore). In addition, the automated MBI
analyzer 28 can include an oxidation unit (not shown) to add an oxidizing compound (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) into the sample as a pre-treatment to reduce or remove effects of certain organic compounds that may be present in the sample. Furthermore, the analyzer 28 may include a dilution device (not shown) for adding water (e.g., deionized water) to the sample.

[00120] Referring to Fig 5, the automated MBI analyzer 28 can include a pH
adjustment unit 45 to bring the tailings sample to a pre-determined pH value or range.
Depending on the initial pH of the tailings sample, the pH adjustment unit 45 can increase or decrease the pH of the sample. Typical MFT samples can be basic, e.g., in the range of pH 6 to 10, and thus the pH adjustment unit 45 can act as an acidification unit by adding acid to the sample to bring the pH to a pre-determined value, for example about 4. However, some tailings samples may have a lower pH and in such cases the pH adjustment unit 45 would be configured to add a base to increase the pH to the pre-determined value, around 4 for example. Depending on the processing history and exposure of the tailings sample, it may have various pH properties. Tailings that have been affected by acid mine drainage can have lower pH properties, while other tailings materials can have higher pH in the range of about 10. The pH adjustment unit 45 can be equipped with a pH sensor and an addition device for adding the acid or base, if required. The pre-determined pH value can be determined based on experiments and can be fixed at 4 or another value in the range of 3 to 5, for example.

[00121] It is also noted that the analyzer 28 can include a sample preparation unit that includes several sub-units for preparing the sample for titration. For example, the sample preparation unit can include the pH adjustment unit 45, a temperature control unit that includes a temperature sensor and heating means for maintaining a constant temperature (e.g., ambient temperature or a temperature up to 30 C, 40 C or 50 C), and a pre-conditioning unit for dispersing the clays in the sample by mixing and/or sonication.
The sample preparation unit can thus be equipped with various sensors (temperature, pH, etc.) for measurement of desired properties. The sample preparation unit can also include various devices for taking actions, such as addition devices for adding acid or base; heating means which can include various mechanisms for providing controlled heat to the sample, optionally via the holder; mixers and sonication devices to pre-condition the sample, and so on. The sample preparation unit can also be configured so that certain components operate not only before initiating the titration but also during titration to maintain certain conditions. For example, the temperature control unit can be operated throughout the titration to ensure that the sample is maintained at a relatively constant temperature.

[00122] It should be noted that the automated MBI analyzer 28 components illustrated in Fig 5 can be mounted with respect to support structure that can be constructed as an at-line unit that is relocatable to different points of an MFT flocculation and dewatering operation, particularly points upstream of flocculant injectors. Referring to Fig 10, the analyzer 28 can be mounted to a frame 76 which can have wheels 77 and/or a structure facilitating relocation via a vehicle, such as a forklift or truck (not illustrated). In some scenarios, the analyzer 28 can be set up on a skid and/or within an enclosure, such as a shipping- or office-type container (not illustrated).

[00123] Fig 10 illustrates a relocatable MBI analysis unit 78 that includes the wheel-mounted frame 76 on which the automated MBI analyzer 28 is mounted. The relocatable MBI analysis unit 78 can also include a cover 80, which may be removable, for covering all or part of the automated MBI analyzer 28, to facilitate protection from the environment. The relocatable MBI analysis unit 78 can also include a sample support 82 that can be uncovered and can be used by an operator for placing tools, containers, and the like, which may be useful for the MBI analysis. There may also be an external receptacle 84 for receiving the MFT sample 30 from the source 12 or in-line flow of MFT 14, depending on the location of the relocatable MBI analysis unit 78.
Obtaining the MFT sample 30 may include opening an MFT sample valve 86 and drawing an amount of MFT that can be discharged into the receptacle 84 or directly into the MFT
sample holder (not illustrated here) of the analyzer 28.

[00124] The analyzer 28 may also be configured and positioned to facilitate visual inspection of various components and compounds used in the analysis. For example, the sample holder may be composed of a transparent material to enable visual inspection of the MFT sample by an operator and/or by the camera, in order to inspect the MFT sample for various characteristics such as clay dispersion, bitumen separation, segregation, and the like. The analyzer 28 may include an MFT sample analysis component (not illustrated) for automated inspection of various properties of the MFT
samples (e.g., composition, temperature, yield strength, viscosity, pH, and so on).

[00125] Referring still to Fig 10, the relocatable MBI analysis unit 78 can also include a transmitter 88 coupled to the analyzer 28 to transmit data to other control units, devices, and/or receivers, which are part of the MFT flocculation and dewatering operation and/or the bitumen extraction facility. The transmitted data includes the MBI

data generated by the image processor, and can also include additional data regarding the MFT, environmental conditions, or analyzer functioning. The additional data may be obtained in automated fashion. In some implementations, the transmitter 88 is configured to transmit the MBI data in various forms (e.g., wireless). In some implementations, the transmitted MBI data is received by a flocculant control unit 90 which controls the flocculant dosage into the MFT flow 14, for example by regulating the flow rate of the flocculant solution 18 injected into the MFT flow 14 or the flocculant concentration within the solution.

[00126] In some scenarios, where there are multiple MFT sources 12 and/or feed pipelines, as illustrated in Fig 7, there may be multiple automated MBI
analyzers 28 each provided at a distinct location for analyzing a distinct MFT source or flow.
Fig 8 illustrates a scenario where there is a single main MFT source 12 with multiple feed pipelines that supply MFT to different flocculant injectors (not illustrated here), and each of the feed pipelines can have its own automated MBI analyzer 28.

[00127] Fig 9 shows a scenario where a single automated MBI analyzer 28 is used for two different MFT sources 12 (e.g., from two different ponds). In such configurations, the automated MBI analyzer 28 can be equipped with multiple sets of certain components (e.g., multiple sample holders) to enable parallel analysis of two distinct MFT samples.
The controller 70 can be programmed to enable the requisite timing, component manipulation and coordination for parallel analysis. Alternatively, the automated MBI
analyzer 28 can analyze samples in series, for example alternating between two MFT
sources.

[00128) In some implementations, the automated MBI analyzer can include an automated cleaning mechanism (not illustrated) for cleaning components that are in contact with MB (which is a dye), MFT, and other fluids that may be used in the titration.
The automated cleaning mechanism can include a cleaning fluid dispenser (e.g., for water), a used cleaner receptacle, and optionally a brush or cleaning implement.

[00129] Referring to Fig 5, the automated MBI analyzer 28 can be viewed as including two main units: a titration unit (T) and a digital image acquisition and processing unit (DIAP) which are integrated to provide MBI analysis. The titration unit includes the sample and fluid handling components, while the DIAP includes the digital camera 64 and image processor 66. The controller can be a separate control unit or can be integrated with the titration unit or the DIAP.

[00130] Now turning to Fig 6, the automated image processing will be discussed in greater detail. The image processor can be configured in various ways to analyze the digital spot images 68 generated by the camera during the automated titration.
In some implementations, each digital spot image 68 is analyzed by taking into account the hue, chroma and dimensional properties of the "halo" that is formed. As discussed above, digital spot images are acquired by the camera and represent the spots that are formed by the discharged samples that have been subjected to stepwise addition of MB.

[00131] Referring to Fig 6, each digital spot image 68 includes at least a background 92 (i.e., surrounding filter paper), a central blue spot 94 and a water mark 96. The digital spot image 68 is a digital color representation of the MB-MFT spot formed on the filter paper.

[00132] The image processor can be configured to determine color property values at multiple locations of the digital spot image 68, identify inflection points of color property values, compare color property values at the identified inflection points to reference color property values, and determine whether the titration is complete based on the comparison between the measured and reference values. In some implementations, the color property values may include hue, saturation and chroma, and such properties are measured from a starting point within the central blue spot 94 (e.g., center of the image) in distance intervals, passing through the blue spot 94, the water mark 96 until the background 92 is reached. The color property values (e.g., hue, saturation and chroma) can thus be measured along a relatively linear path from within the blue spot 94 until the background 92. The color property values can be measured along multiple paths (e.g., both x- and y-axes). The measurements can be taken in a center-out fashion, or alternatively can be taken staring at the background and moving inward toward the center. The blue spot 94 can have a central brownish clay region 98 and an outer blueish dye region 100.

[00133] The measured color and position information can be plotted in order to identify the inflection points that correspond to three main transition points: (i) the inner transition 102 from the clay region 98 to the outer blueish dye region 100, (ii) the intermediate transition 104 from the blueish dye region 100 to the water mark 96, and (iii) the outer transition 106 from the water mark 96 to the background 92 (filter paper).
Fig 6 illustrates the different color regions and transition points of the digital spot image 68. These transitions correspond to inflection points when the color properties are converted to numerical values.

[00134]
Determination of the inflection points can include various techniques. When certain changes in color are relatively stark or have step-change characteristics, the corresponding inflection point can be relatively straightforward to determine.
In some scenarios, the changes in color may be more gradual, in which case there can be a mathematical algorithm provided to determine the actual inflection point for color. There are various known techniques for inflection point determination which can include a number of estimations and/or calculations, and can include numerical or analytical techniques.

[00135] The image processor can be configured to identify a blue-green halo which is the hallmark of the end point of MB titration. The numerical values for identifying the color properties of the digital spot image can be based on various color systems, such as the "Munsell" color system, a "Lab" color space (e.g. CIELAB), or color appearance models (e.g., CIECAM02). In the Munsell color system, colors are specified based on the three color dimensions of hue, value (lightness) and chroma (color purity); and the image processor can be configured such that the calibration value for the blue-green MB
halo is within the hue range of 2.5G to 10BG on the color wheel, for example, or a narrower blue-green range. The implemented blue-green range can be based on calibration of a particular instrument with MB dye. The chroma calibration value can be the same or different for different hues (e.g., minimum value of /4), and the value calibration value can be the same or different for different hues (e.g., minimum value of 3/). Narrower ranges can also be used. The implemented range for the hues and any other color properties can be based on calibration of a particular instrument with MB dye.

[00136] In addition to the color properties, the image processor is also configured to determine dimensional properties of the digital image of the spot. Dimensional properties relate to the dimensions of different regions of the spot. As discussed above, the image includes the central region, the outer annular region, the water mark and the background. Dimensional properties of the central region, the outer annular region, the water mark are determined. The central region is generally circular, while the other two regions are annular or ring shaped. Various particular dimensional properties can be determined, such as the area of each region.

[00137] In order to determine the dimensional properties, contours of each region can be determined. The contours can be determined using various techniques or software. Once the contours are determined and thus define contoured shapes corresponding to the regions of the spot, dimensional properties of each region can be determined. For example, in one implementation the dimensional properties include the respective areas of the regions. Alternatively, the dimensional properties could include other features of the regions, such as circumferences or perimeters, radius from the center for the central region, widths or an average width for each annular region, and so on. The dimensional properties that are used for the analysis can be a single property, such as the area of the relevant regions, or can be multiple properties.

[00138] The dimensional properties can then be used in a function to help determine whether titration is complete. The function can be based on a combination of the dimensional properties of the different regions, such as ratios between a given dimensional property for different regions. In one example, when areas are the dimensional properties, ratios of the different areas can be used in the function to determine whether titration has completed. The function can output a single numerical value based on the input variables, which include the dimensional properties, and that numerical value can be compared to a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether to stop or continue titration.

[00139] The function can include both the dimensional properties and the color properties determined for the digital image of the spot. Alternatively, the function can include only dimensional properties and can thus act as a second indicator in combination with a color-based determination such as that described above. The dimensional-based function and the color-based analysis can be used to have a robust determination regarding the titration. The dimensional-based function and the color-based analysis can be used such that both must provide a positive output in order to cease titration; or such that if only one of the dimensional-based function or the color-based analysis provide a positive output the titration is stopped.

[00140] The function can be developed based on various techniques, including regression and multivariable analysis, depending on the variables that are used. In example work, a function was developed based on areas of the spot regions using MatlabTM.

[00141] In some implementations, the image processor includes analysis modules configured to perform at least the following steps:
(A) Measure the background 92 of the digital spot image 68 and translate it into a numerical value (based on the hue and chroma) for the background 92.
(B) Measures the center of the digital spot image 68 and translate it into a numerical value (based on the hue and chroma).
(C) Starting from the center, measure the hue and chroma and translate the values into a numerical value at distance intervals (e.g., 0.5 mm), on the positive x-axis; and continue to do the measurements and save the data in a table until the measurement match the value obtained in step (A). Note that the intervals at which the hue and chroma are taken can be pre-determined distance intervals (e.g., 0.5 mm or 1 mm) or can be a number of pixels (e.g., every pixel, every 50 or 100 pixels, etc.).
(i) Draw a curve based on the values determined in step (C), and identify the inflection points. There will be three inflection points:
First, when the spot transitions from the clay color to blue color;
second, the change in color from blue to the water mark, due to water blotting; and third, from water stain to background color.
(ii) Average the value obtained between the first and second inflection points, and compare it with the value saved in the calibration table of the program. This average value represents the transition of color from the color of titrated clay to the color of non-titrated MB solution.
(iii) Average the value obtained between the second and third inflection points, and compare it with the value saved in the calibration table of the program. This average value represents the transition of color from the color of non-titrated MB solution to the color of the water mark.
(D) Starting from the center, measure the hue and chroma and translate it into a numerical value at distance intervals (e.g., 0.5 mm or 1 mm), or a number of pixels (e.g., every pixel, every 50 or 100 pixels, etc.)., on the positive y-axis;
continue to do the measurements and save the data in a table until the measurement match the value obtained in step (A). The distance intervals for the y-axis can be the same or different compared to those used for the x-axis.
(i) Draw a curve based on the values determined in step (D), and identify the inflection points. There will be three inflection points:
first, when the spot transitions from the clay color to blue color;
second, the change in blue color to watermark due to water blotting; and third, from water mark to background color.
(ii) Average the value obtained between the first and second inflection points, and compare it with the value saved in the calibration table of the program.
(iii) Average the value obtained between the second and third inflection points, and compare it with the value saved in the calibration table of the program.
(E) The inflection point values for steps (C) and (D) are compared to the calibration curve. The same or similar comparison can be done here as was done for steps (C)(ii), (C)(iii), (D)(ii) and (D)(iii). The comparison can be done based on the calibration values stored in the memory of the image processor.
The y-axis inflection points can be determined notably in order to assess or accommodate any irregularities in the drop shape. By performing the determination along two axes of the drop (e.g., x-axis and y-axis), the robustness and accuracy of the analysis can be enhanced.
(i) If the values for steps (C) and (D) match with the calibration values, then the end point has been reached and a signal can be sent to the titration components to pause to allow drying of the spot, and then take another digital image after the prescribed drying time. Step (F) is then performed.
(ii) If the values for steps (C) and (D) do not match with the calibration values, then a signal is sent to the titration components to continue the titration procedure, i.e., add a further increment of the MB to the sample.
(F) After drying, the image processor again performs steps (A) to (D).
(i) If the repeat "dry" measurements and analyses match the calibration values then a signal can be sent to the titration components to stop the titration test and move to a next sample.
(ii) If the values in steps (C) and (D) for the "dry" image do not match the calibration values, then a signal is sent to the titration components to continue the titration procedure, i.e., add a further increment of the MB to the sample.
(G) In some instances, the step (F) is not carried out and the determination of end point is carried out solely on the analysis of wet image per steps (A) to (E).

[00142] It should be noted that the digital spot image can be processed based on various protocols in order to identify different color regions (e.g., based on hue, chroma, etc.) and transitions (e.g., based on changes in hue, chroma, etc., at different locations of the image).

[00143] The automated MBI analyzer can thus conduct MBI titration of MFT
samples and uses digital image capturing and evaluation of color properties (e.g., hue and chroma) and dimensional properties of the image for customized determination of MBI
on MFT slurry samples.

[00144] In some implementations, the automated MBI analyzer uses color properties of at least hue and chroma for the titration. Alternatively, other sets of color properties could be used for the digital image analysis. In addition, depending on the image capture settings (e.g., the light intensity detected by the camera or emitted by a light source, the digitization and storage of the image, etc.), the image processor can be configured to analyze various types of color data and properties. In other alternative implementations, the digital camera is configured to capture wavelengths that are not necessarily in the visible spectrum to provide further potential enhancements over manual operators in terms of assessing the properties of the digital spot image. In this regard, it should be noted that the term "light" as used herein is intended to refer to radiation in any appropriate region of the electromagnetic spectrum and, in particular, is not limited to visible light, but can also include non-visible regions of the spectrum (e.g., infrared and ultraviolet, etc.).

[00145] Various titration protocols can be implemented using the automated MBI

analyzer. For example, in some implementations the volume of the MFT sample can be between 1 milliliter and 20 milliliters depending on the volume of MB required to complete the titration. A total titration volume of MB can be in the range of 0.5 milliliter to milliliters, for example. The initial MFT sample volume is transferred to the sample holder and its mass and volume can be obtained by integrated mass and volume measurement components.

[00146] The following is an example protocol for the automated MBI
analyzer:
(a) Transfer a pre-determined volume (e.g., 5 milliliters) of MFT into the sample holder.
(b) Optionally, add pre-treatment chemicals (e.g., hydrogen peroxide and/or sulfuric acid) if desired.
(c) Heat the mixture, optionally to boiling on a hotplate, e.g., for 5 to 15 minutes ensuring that the mixture retains liquid at the end of heating.
(d) Add water to dilute the mixture to a pre-determined volume (e.g., 50 milliliters).
(e) Mix and sonicate the sample to ensure dispersion and homogeneity.
(f) Initiate MB increment addition to the mixed sample. Each MB increment can be of the same volume; however, if an approximate amount of MB necessary to reach endpoint is known, based on previous tests or a value input by an operator, then one or more large increments can be added at the beginning of the titration and smaller volumes can be added closer to the approximate end point. For each MB increment:
(i) Add a pre-determined volume of MB;
(ii) Mix the MB-MFT sample, e.g., for 15 seconds to 1 minute, by shaking the sample holder.
(iii) Dispense at least one drop of the sample onto the filter paper, and wait a short time until spot forms.
(iv) Acquire the digital image of the spot. The time delay between drop contact with the filter paper and acquisition of the image can be such that the spot has reached a maximum and stable diameter. The time delay can be about 10 to 20 seconds.
(v) Process the digital image of the spot to determine whether end point of the titration has been reached.
= If titration end point has been reached for the digital image of the wet spot: send a signal to the titration unit to wait a pre-determined drying time to allow the spot to dry (e.g., 2 minutes);
then perform steps (iv) and (v) again on the digital image of the dry spot to determine whether end point of the titration has been reached.
= If titration end point has not been reached for the digital image of the wet spot, send a signal to the titration unit to perform the next titration run of step (f), which can repeated on a closed-loop basis until the end point of the titration is reached.
= If titration end point has been reached for the dry spot, send a signal to the titration components to cease titration on the sample.
= Optionally, if titration end point has been reached for the digital image of the wet spot and/or the dry spot: send a signal to the titration unit to perform at least one additional test on the same sample mixture, i.e., step (f) without sub-step (i), and provide a pre-determined amount of mixing/agitating and/or reaction time (e.g., 1 to 3 minutes) for the sample prior to the additional test.
= Optionally, various characteristics of the digital image can be obtained, including the diameter or size of different parts of the spot, the shape of the spot, etc., which can be recorded for analysis and refinement of the titration unit and/or the DIAP.
(g) Cease titration of the sample.
(h) Generate the MBI value based on input variables regarding volume of MB
added, normality of MB solution used, and mass of dry sample, according to the following equation:
( meg mls MB x Normality of MB
MB! _____________________________________________ x100 100g mass of dried sample (g) (i) Provide MBI value for display, transmission, and/or recording.

[00147] The calibration values can be determined based on previous manual laboratory testing and correlations with the analyzer's image processing results. In addition, computer modelling can be done regarding the digital image in order to provide further information for accurate titration end point determination by the image processor.

[00148] Referring now to Fig 11, a conceptual graph of the manipulated value (obtained from the algorithm based on the measured color properties) versus distance (pixels) is shown. For example, the hue and chroma values are converted into a numerical "color property value" which can then be charted against the location and compared to calibration curves. The chart indicates that where there is a transition from one color to another, there will be an inflection of the "color property value" (CPV), which itself can be determined based on the hue and chroma values read by the image processing system. In some implementations, the "color property value" will be a function of hue and chroma variables, and may in some cases include additional variables as well. The function, CPV = f(hue, chroma), can be determined empirically, analytically, or by combined analytical-empirical methods. In the example of Fig 11, a clear dip can be seen spanning from about pixel 220 to about pixel 300 indicating an inflection point and thus the presence of a notable color change at that region of the digital spot image. The depth and length of the dip can be factors that are considered in determining whether a certain color change has occurred and thus whether titration should be terminated.

[00149] Referring to Fig 12, the digital image of the spot can be subjected to image processing in order to determine dimensional properties of different regions, such as areas Al, A2 and A3. These areas can be calculated by first determining a contour of the regions. Determining the contour can include defining contour boundaries between the different regions, i.e., the central region, the outer dye region, the water mark region and the background region. Three contour boundaries C1, C2 and C3 can thus be determined.
Using the contours, the areas of the relevant regions can then be determined.
Determining the contours and calculating the areas can be performed using software, such as MatlabTM, having a built-in contour and area calculation functionality.

[00150] The dimensional properties, e.g., areas, can then be used to determine titration progress and whether titration is complete. A relationship can be developed between the dimensional properties and titration using various methods. Since the progression of the titration and notably its completion correlates to dimensional properties of the spot, a dimension-titration relationship can be developed and used during the automated titration to determine whether titration is complete. In practice, the dimensional properties (e.g., areas) are input into the dimension-titration relationship which can output a numerical value that represents the progress of titration or, in particular, indicates whether or not the titration is complete. For example, once the numerical value reaches a pre-assigned threshold, then it is determined that titration is complete. The dimension-titration relationship can be a function of the areas of the regions, and can include ratios of the areas. Accuracy can be enhanced by ensuring that the area of the samples is relatively constant and with the same shape, and it was found that this could be facilitated using an automated system.

[00151] Referring to Fig 13, an example is described of how different properties of the digital spot image can be determined and used to help assess titration completion. Fig 13 illustrates an alternative to certain steps in Fig 4, and there are of course initial steps taken by the analyzer to prepare and dispense the drop onto the absorbent material and then acquire a digital image of the spot. In this alternative, both color and dimensional properties are used to evaluate titration. By using these two categories of properties, the overall analysis can be more robust. It is also noted that additional properties could be used in combination with the color and/or dimensional properties in order to further enhance robustness.

[00152] There may be two distinct relationships based on color and dimensional properties, respectively, and the relationships are both evaluated and used to determine titration completion. Alternatively, there may be a single relationship that is based on multiple variables including color and dimensional properties, such that there is a single output to determine whether titration is complete.

[00153] It is also noted that acquiring the digital image of the spot can be performed once the spot has dried or while the spot is still wet. In this regard, it has been found through experimentation that drying is not necessary and thus the extra time needed for drying can be avoided, since the wet image acquisition provides sufficient sensitivity for titration evaluation based on the digital spot images.

[00154] Turning now to Figs 14a to 14f, some graphical user images are shown for output data obtained using techniques described herein. Figs 14a and 14b show screenshots of results of wet and dry clay calibration tests. Figs 14c and 14d show screenshots of results of wet and dry methylene blue tests. Figs 14e and 14f show screenshots of results of wet and dry sample analysis tests at the end point of the clay, where the end point was reached at 21.5 ml of MB. In the latter figures, the different between the wet and dry halos was less than 10%. The depictions in Figs 14a to 14f were obtained in the course of experimental testing of an MBI analyzer.
Alternative analyzer implementations

[00155] In some implementations, the automated analyzer can be adapted to use titration compounds other than MB and/or sensors other than a digital camera to obtain digital information regarding a titration sample spot.

[00156] For example, the automated analyzer can use a titration dye which reacts with clay or other components in the slurry such that titration can provide useful information regarding the composition of the slurry. When titration dyes are used, the digital information that is obtained can be digital color images that are processed according to certain color properties, such as hue and chroma as described above.

[00157] In another example, the automated analyzer can use a titration compound which reacts with clay or other components of the slurry such that the resulting titration spot does not necessarily exhibit notable color characteristics. While it would be difficult for a human operator to ascertain any reliable information from such non-color titrations, the sensor and processor units can be configured and operated based on non-visible characteristics and may therefore leverage other types of light sources, wavelengths, acquisition techniques and processing techniques to yield useful information regarding the sample. For instance, while visible light may provide no meaningful information regarding progress of the titration, non-visible light (e.g., infrared, ultraviolet, etc.) may be able to demonstrate titration progress in order to provide information on sample composition.
Clay-containing slurry implementations

[00158] In some implementations, the automated MBI analyzer is particularly suited for slurry samples that are obtained from a tailings pond and/or have been previously subjected to processing such that the clays are already substantially dispersed in the aqueous medium of the tailings. This highly dispersed state of the clays facilitates operation of the automated MBI analyzer since dispersion of the clays does not require elaborate assessment, time or operation. The automated MBI analyzer is thus particularly advantageous for analyzing samples having minimal or no preparation requirements, as is the case for MFT, and within the context of a treatment process of the clay-containing material where clay content can both vary frequently and have an impact on process variables.

[00159] In alternative implementations, the automated MBI analyzer can be adapted for analysis of other clay-containing slurry samples that may require dispersion pre-treatments that include chemical addition, mixing, sonication, and so on. For example, drilling fluids, fracking fluids, core sample, slurry materials including particulate mined ore, slurry streams that are withdrawn from various pipelines or unit operations (e.g., separator underflows, overflows, middlings, and/or feed streams) or in an extraction process (e.g., primary or secondary oil sands extraction, other mineral extraction process).

[00160] The automated MD analysis can also be used to determine slurry MBI in order to regulate various downstream unit operations. In one example, as discussed above, the MBI of the MFT sample is used to control or inform downstream flocculation and dewatering operation, notably to adjust the flocculant concentration on a clay basis.
In another example, the MBI of an oil sands slurry sample can be used to control a downstream bitumen extraction operation based. Such an oil sands slurry can be various types of slurry, such as oil sands tailings which are processed to recover additional bitumen and/or other components (e.g., metals), oil sands hydrotransport slurry that is supplied to a flotation vessel, oil sands bitumen froth that is supplied to secondary extraction (e.g., that uses naphthenic or paraffinic solvent extraction), or oil sands slurry streams that are supplied to any secondary or tertiary separation units (e.g., gravity settlers, flotation vessels, inclined plate separators, thickeners, cyclones, centrifuges, etc.).

[00161] The automated MBI analysis can be used for various samples having different approximate clay contents. MFT samples may have, for example, solids concentrations between about 15 wt% and about 45 wt% (or higher), and the clay content can be at least 50 wt% on a total solids basis. MFT samples can often have clay contents of at least 60 wt%, at least 70 wt%, at least 80 wt%, at least 90 wt%, or at least 95 wt% on a total solids basis, while the solids content is often between 20 wt% and 40 wt% or between 25 wt% and 35 wt%. Other clay-containing samples that have such high clay contents can also be used with the automated MBI analysis.
Automated analyzer use with MFT flocculation

[00162] As mentioned above, the MBI data generated by the automated MBI
analyzer can be used for process control or assessment in MFT flocculation and dewatering operations.

[00163] In MFT dewatering operations where MFT is dredged from one or more tailings ponds that have received extraction tailings from different sources of the extraction facility, the MFT feed that is subjected to flocculation and dewatering can have variable clay content and other components. In addition, flocculating the MET
using an anionic polymer (e.g., a sodium polyacrylamide polyacrylate co-polymer with 30%
anionicity and a molecular weight over 10,000,000) is advantageously performed with a flocculent dosage on a clay basis rather than on a total solids basis.
Conducting automated, reliable and timely MBI analyses can provide notable benefits in terms of enhancing process control of MFT flocculation and dewatering operations, as the MBI
can provide timely information for feed-forward control of flocculent dosing and achieving enhanced water release and drying of treated MFT.

[00164] It has been found that in MFT flocculation and dewatering operations the clay content in the MFT can vary by about 2% to 5% or higher per day, which can have a notable impact on flocculent dosage. The automated MBI analyzer can generate MBI
data at a frequency enabling the flocculent dosage to be controlled to account for the clay variations that tend to occur in the MFT feed. In some implementations, the potential benefit in terms of improved flocculation consistency and reduced polymer dosage can result in significant savings in terms of flocculent usage in addition to higher production rates of dried MFT. In addition, while typical variations in MFT
clay content may be in the range of 5% per day, there may also be greater step-changes in clay content when the source of the MFT is changed or the dredging equipment is moved within the tailings pond, and thus the automated MBI analyzer can enable rapid adjustment of the flocculent dosage in response to step-changes and thus avoid waste of flocculent and off-specification material that could result due to inaccurate flocculent dosage.

[00165] Two notable parameters can be used in the control and optimization of MFT
flocculation and dewatering operations: (1) flocculent dosage, and (2) mixing of the flocculent and MFT. Optimal polymer flocculent dosage is based on active clay area in the MFT feed, which can be indicated by MBI data. In some scenarios, the MBI
data generated by the automated analyzer can be used to adjust mixing parameters instead of or in addition to flocculent dosage. For example, high clay content MFT may benefit from higher mixing energy, which could be provided by increasing the flow rates or providing mixing devices, or manipulation of the MFT feed properties which could include additional shear-thinning and/or dilution prior to flocculation to reduce viscosity and yield strength of the MFT that is mixed with the flocculent. Thus, the automated MBI
analyzer can be used to enhance process control of various parameters of MET
flocculation and dewatering operations.

Optional flocculation and dewatering features

[00166] Some implementations and features of MET flocculation and dewatering operations have been described herein, but it should be noted that various modifications could be made to the particular implementations and features that have been disclosed.

[00167] For example, it should be noted that other types of dewatering chemicals can be used instead of or in addition to the polymer flocculent, particularly those that are advantageously dosed on a clay basis. In addition, while the units illustrated in Fig 1 may be provided as part of an in-line pipe-based system in which the materials are transported, treated and mixed in a continuous manner along a pipeline prior to being deposited, in some alternative implementations it is possible to use units that are not in-line pipe-based but are rather tank-based or batch-based, for example, to perform certain process steps. In some implementations, the flocculent comprises an anionic polymer flocculent, which may be a sodium salt of an anionic polymer, such as a 30%
anionic sodium polyacrylamide-polyacrylate co-polymer. The polymer flocculent may also have a desired high molecular weight, for instance over 10,000,000, for certain flocculation reactivity and dewatering potential. The polymer flocculent may be generally linear or not according to the desired shear and process response and reactivity with the given MFT.

[00168] It should further be noted that the MBI data can be used in combination with other data regarding properties of the MFT in order to control the flocculation and dewatering operation. For example, certain properties of the MFT (e.g., bitumen content, sand content, yield stress, viscosity, clay-to-water ratio (CWR), sand-to-fines ratio (SFR), salt content, and various other chemical and rheological properties) can be determined by various methods and can be used in combination with the MBI data to control the process.

[00169] It is also noted that the flocculent injection unit can have various designs, such as an in-line co-annular injector or other types of injectors that rapidly disperse the flocculent solution into the MFT. The MBI data that is used for process control can be used in different ways that are tailored to the particular design of the flocculent injection unit. In addition, the downstream handling of the flocculation material can include pipelining and expelling into a deposition area for dewatering. The pipelining can be managed according to various techniques that have been previously described, e.g., where the flocculation material is subject to sufficient in-line shear to be within a water-release zone upon deposition. The water-release zone can be where the flocculated material has passed a peak yield stress but is not over-sheared, such that the water-release characteristics of the material are in a maximum region. The design and operation of the pipeline can be conducted according to the Camp Number, for example.
It is noted that other downstream handling equipment can be used to handle the flocculation material in between flocculation and dewatering.

[00170] The dewatering can be performed by expelling the flocculated MFT onto a sub-aerial deposition area in thin lifts, or into a permanent aquatic storage structure where the flocculated material dewaters near the bottom of a lake-like structure that has an upper water layer. The dewatering can also include various dewatering devices, which may be used alone or in combination with the sub-aerial deposition area or the permanent aquatic storage structure. In this regard, the automated MBI
analyzer can also enhance accurate tracking and estimation of quantity of clay material that is treated and ultimately reclaimed as part of a tailings dewatering and reclamation efforts.

Claims

49

1. An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH
adjustment and temperature control prior to titration or during titration or both;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot, the digital image comprising color properties including hue and chroma and dimensional properties including contour boundaries of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to:
receive the digital image of the spot;
determine hue and chroma of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region;
determine contours of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region;

identify transition points of the hue, chroma and contour boundaries between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region;
determine transition point values for each of the identified transition points;
compare the transition point values with corresponding calibration values or pre-assigned values;
provide a signal to continue MB titration of the MFT sample if the transition point values do not substantially match the calibration values or pre-assigned values; and provide a signal to cease MB titration of the MFT sample if the transition point values do not substantially match the calibration values or pre-assigned values which indicates that the titration is complete, thereby providing MBI data for the MFT sample.

2. An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH
adjustment and temperature control prior to titration or during titration or both;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample;

an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot, the digital image comprising color and dimensional properties; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to:
receive the digital image of the spot;
determine color properties of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region;
identify transition points of the color properties between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region;
determine a first value for the transition point between central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, a second value for the transition point between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and a third value for the transition point between the water mark region and the background region;
average the first and second values to produce a first averaged value, and compare the first averaged value with a corresponding first calibration value;
average the second and third values to produce a second averaged value, and compare the second averaged value with a corresponding second calibration value;
determine dimensional properties based on contour boundaries of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region;

generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the first and second averaged values substantially match the corresponding first and second calibration values or pre-assigned values, or if the dimensional properties match corresponding calibration or pre-assigned values, or both; and generate a signal to continue MB titration of the MFT sample if the first and second averaged values do not substantially match the corresponding first and second calibration values or pre-assigned values, or if the dimensional properties do not match corresponding calibration or pre-assigned values, or both.

3. An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing mature fine tailings (MFT) samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the MFT sample;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
a sample preparation assembly for preparing the MFT sample, the sample preparation assembly being configured to provide mixing, dispersion, pH
adjustment and temperature control prior to titration or during titration or both;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB container into the sample holder to produce an MB-MFT titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the MB-MFT titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the MB-MFT titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the MB-MFT titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to receive the digital image of the spot, determine color and dimensional properties of the digital image of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on the color and dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the MFT sample, thereby providing MBI data for the MFT sample.

4. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 3, wherein the sample holder comprises a cup, a vial or a sealed vessel.

5. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 3 or 4, wherein the sample holder is configured to receive the MFT sample from a pipeline flow of the MFT.

6. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the sample holder is configured to receive the MFT sample from a tailings pond.

7. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the MB
container comprises a cup or a sealed vessel.

8. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the addition mechanism comprises a robotic arm configured to engage the MB container and to dispense the MB increment from the MB container into the sample holder.

9. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the addition mechanism comprises an MB titration line in fluid communication between the MB

container and the sample holder to provide flow of the MB increment into the sample holder.

10. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 8, wherein the addition mechanism further comprises pump coupled to the MB titration line for pumping the MB increment there through.

11. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 9, wherein the MB container is positioned above the sample holder to enable gravity to induce the flow of the MB increment into the sample holder.

12. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the addition mechanism further comprises an MB valve disposed on the MB titration line.

13. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 12, wherein the mixer is configured to engage with the sample holder to provide pre-titration mixing to the MFT
sample.

14. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the mixer comprises a robotic arm configured to engage the sample holder and provide mixing energy to the MFT sample.

15. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 14, further comprising a sonication unit configured to provide sonication to the MFT sample prior to titration.

16. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 15, wherein the sonication unit is configured to engage the sample holder to provide the sonication to the MFT sample within the sample holder.

17. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 16, further comprising a heater configured to provide heating to the MFT sample prior to titration.

18. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 17, wherein the heater is configured to engage the sample holder to provide the heating to the MFT sample within the sample holder.

19. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 18, wherein the dispenser comprises a syringe.

20. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 19, wherein the dispenser is configured to be engaged by a robotic arm in order to retrieve a portion of the MB-MFT
titration sample from the sample holder and then dispense the drop onto the absorbent material.

21. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 19, wherein absorbent material comprises filter paper.

22. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 21, wherein the filter paper comprises a strip of filter paper dispensed from a roll mounted to a spool and being rotatable to provide fresh sections of the filter paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops; or wherein the filter paper comprises a circular disk-shaped paper that is rotatable to provide fresh sections of the circular disk-shaped paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops.

23. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 22, wherein the digital camera is positioned and oriented to capture the digital image of the spot moving the absorbent material from a location where the spot was initially formed.

24. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 23, further comprising a light source for illuminating the spot for the digital camera.

25. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 24, wherein the light source is configured to illuminate each spot so that the digital image of each spot has a constant lightness.

26. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 24 or 25, wherein the light source comprises a camera flash unit.

27. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 26, wherein the camera is configured such that the digital image of the spot includes color properties comprising at least hue and chroma.

28. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 27, wherein the image processor is configured to determine the hue and chroma of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region.

29. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 28, wherein the image processor is configured to identify transition points of the color properties between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region.

30. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 29, wherein the image processor is configured to identify the transition points based on inflection points of the color properties.

31. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 29, wherein the image processor is configured to identify the transition points along an x-axis and a y-axis from a center of the spot.

32. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein the image processor is configured to compare the transition points with corresponding calibration values, and to determine whether titration is complete based on such comparison.

33. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 28 to 32, wherein the image processor is configured to determine a first value for the transition point between central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, a second value for the transition point between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region.

34. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 33, wherein the image processor is configured to average the first and second values, and compare the averaged value with a corresponding calibration value.

35. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 28 to 34, wherein the image processor is configured to determine a third value for the transition point between the water mark region and the background region.

36. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 35, wherein the image processor is configured to average the second and third values, and compare the averaged value with a corresponding calibration value.

37. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 36, wherein the image processor is configured to generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values substantially match the corresponding calibration values.

38. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 34, wherein the image processor is configured to generate a signal to pause to allow drying of the spot, so that a dry-spot digital image is acquired and processed.

39. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 38, wherein the image processor is configured to analyse the dry-spot digital image in according to a corresponding methodology as the spot, and to generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values for the dry-spot digital image substantially match the corresponding calibration values.

40. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 28 to 39, wherein the image processor is configured to determine contour boundaries between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region.

41. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 40, wherein the image processor is configured to use the contour boundaries to determine the dimensional properties that are used determine whether titration is complete.

42. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 41, wherein the image processor is further configured to determine respective areas of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region based on the contour boundaries, and wherein the dimensional properties comprise the areas.

43. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 42, wherein the image processor is further configured to employ a pre-determined relationship between the areas and titration completion.

44. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 43, wherein the pre-determined relationship comprises ratios of the areas.

45. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 44, wherein the sample preparation assembly is configured for preparing the sample prior to adding the MB
increments.

46. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 45, wherein the sample preparation assembly comprises a pH adjustment unit for adjusting the pH of the sample to a pre-determined pH value.

47. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 46, wherein the pH adjustment unit comprises a pH sensor for measuring the pH of the sample.

48. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 47, wherein the pH adjustment unit comprises an acid addition device for adding an acid when the measured pH is above 5.

49. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 48, wherein the acid comprises sulfuric acid.

50. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the pH
adjustment unit comprises a base addition device for adding a base when the measured pH
is below 3.

51. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 50, wherein the base comprises caustic.

52. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 47 to 51, wherein the pre-determined pH value is between 3.5 and 5.

53. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 47 to 51, wherein the pre-determined pH value is 4.

54. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 45 to 53, wherein the sample preparation assembly comprises a temperature control unit comprising a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the sample and configured to control the sample temperature at a target temperature during titration.

55. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 54, wherein the temperature control unit comprises heating means for heating the sample to maintain the target temperature.

56. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 54, wherein the heating means are configured to control the temperature and the target temperature that is between ambient temperature and 50 C.

57. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 45 to 53, wherein the sample preparation assembly comprises a pre-conditioning unit configured to pre-condition the sample to disperse clays therein prior to adding the MB increments.

58. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 57, wherein the pre-conditioning assembly comprises a mixer.

59. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 57 or 58, wherein the pre-conditioning assembly comprises a sonication device.

60. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 59, wherein the absorbent material is reusable for multiple automated titrations.

61. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 60, further comprising a regeneration unit configured for regenerating a used absorbent material to remove the spot therefrom and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.

62. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 61, wherein the reusable absorbent material is composed of a synthetic polymeric material.

63. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 61, wherein the regeneration unit comprises a washing unit for washing the reusable absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a washed absorbent material.

64. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 63, wherein the regeneration unit further comprises a drying unit for drying the washed absorbent material to produce a dried absorbent material for reuse.

65. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 64, further comprising a controller for controlling at least one of the following:
quantity of each MB increment that is supplied from the MB container to the sample holder;
activation and energy of the mixer;
activation and energy of the sample preparation unit, including one or more of the pH adjustment unit, the temperature control unit, or the pre-conditioning unit, or a combination thereof;
activation of the dispenser;
location of the absorbent material relative to the dispenser;
activation of the digital camera;
activation of each round of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor;
cessation of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor; and coordination of movement and timing of components and fluids.

66. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 65, further comprising at least one robotic arm configured to manipulate the sample holder, the MB container, the addition mechanism, the mixer, the dispenser, the absorbent material, the digital camera, or the image processor, or a combination thereof.

67. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 66, further comprising a transmitter configured to receive the MBI data from the image processor, and to transmit the MBI data to a receiver that is part of a downstream system.

68. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 67, wherein the downstream system comprises an MFT flocculation unit and the MBI data is transmitted to a flocculant injector.

69. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 68, further comprising a support frame that is relocatable to at-line positions along an MFT pipeline.

70. A system for dewatering mature fine tailings (MFT), comprising:
a flocculant addition unit for adding flocculant into the MFT on a clay basis to produce flocculated tailings;
a dewatering unit receiving the flocculated tailings; and the automated MBI analyzer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 69, configured to receive MFT samples upstream of the flocculant addition unit;
wherein the flocculation addition unit is controlled at least in part based on the MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer.

71. A method for dewatering mature fine tailings (MFT), comprising:
adding floccuant to the MFT according to a clay-based dosage to produce flocculated tailings;
dewatering the flocculated tailings;
adjusting the clay-based dosage based on MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 69.

72. An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analyzer for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the clay-containing samples;
a methylene blue (MB) container configured to receive and contain MB;
an addition mechanism for adding MB increments obtained from the MB
container into the sample holder to produce a titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a digital camera positioned relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire a digital image of the spot; and an image processor coupled to the digital camera and configured to receive the digital image of the spot, determine color and dimensional properties of the digital image of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on the color and dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample, thereby providing MBI
data for the clay-containing samples.

73. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 72, wherein the sample holder comprises a cup, a vial or a sealed vessel.

74. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 72 or 73, wherein the sample holder is configured to receive the clay-containing sample from a pipeline flow of a clay-containing stream.

75. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 74, wherein the sample holder is configured to receive the clay-containing sample from a tailings pond.

76. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 75, wherein the MB
container comprises a cup or a sealed vessel.

77. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 76, wherein the addition mechanism comprises a robotic arm configured to engage the MB container and to dispense the MB increment from the MB container into the sample holder.

78. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 77, wherein the addition mechanism comprises an MB titration line in fluid communication between the MB

container and the sample holder to provide flow of the MB increment into the sample holder.

79. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 78, wherein the addition mechanism further comprises pump coupled to the MB titration line for pumping the MB increment there through.

80. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 79, wherein the MB container is positioned above the sample holder to enable gravity to induce the flow of the MB
increment into the sample holder.

81. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 78 to 80, wherein the addition mechanism further comprises an MB valve disposed on the MB titration line.

82. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 81, wherein the mixer is configured to engage with the sample holder to provide pre-titration mixing to the clay-containing sample.

83. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 82, wherein the mixer comprises a robotic arm configured to engage the sample holder and provide mixing energy to the clay-containing sample.

84. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 83, further comprising a sonication unit configured to provide sonication to the clay-containing sample prior to titration.

85. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 84, wherein the sonication unit is configured to engage the sample holder to provide the sonication to the clay-containing sample within the sample holder.

86. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 85, further comprising a heater configured to provide heating to the clay-containing sample prior to titration.

87. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 86, wherein the heater is configured to engage the sample holder to provide the heating to the clay-containing sample within the sample holder.

88. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 87, wherein the dispenser comprises a syringe.

89. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 88, wherein the dispenser is configured to be engaged by a robotic arm in order to retrieve a portion of the MB-MFT
titration sample from the sample holder and then dispense the drop onto the absorbent material.

90. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 89, wherein absorbent material comprises filter paper.

91. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 90, wherein the filter paper comprises a strip of filter paper dispensed from a roll mounted to a spool and being rotatable to provide fresh sections of the filter paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops; or wherein the filter paper comprises a circular disk-shaped paper that is rotatable to provide fresh sections of the circular disk-shaped paper below the dispenser for receiving respective drops.

92. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 91, wherein the digital camera is positioned and oriented to capture the digital image of the spot moving the absorbent material from a location where the spot was initially formed.

93. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 92, further comprising a light source for illuminating the spot for the digital camera.

94. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 93, wherein the light source is configured to illuminate each spot so that the digital image of each spot has a constant lightness.

95. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 93 or 94, wherein the light source comprises a camera flash unit.

96. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 95, wherein the camera is configured such that the digital image of the spot includes color properties comprising at least hue and chroma.

97. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 96, wherein the image processor is configured to determine the hue and chroma of a central region of the spot, an outer dye region of the spot, a water mark region and a background region.

98. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 97, wherein the image processor is configured to identify transition points of the color properties between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region.

99. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 98, wherein the image processor is configured to identify the transition points based on inflection points of the color properties.

100. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 98, wherein the image processor is configured to identify the transition points along an x-axis and a y-axis from a center of the spot.

101. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 98 to 100, wherein the image processor is configured to compare the transition points with corresponding calibration values, and to determine whether titration is complete based on such comparison.

102. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 98 to 101, wherein the image processor is configured to determine a first value for the transition point between central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, a second value for the transition point between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region.

103. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 102, wherein the image processor is configured to average the first and second values, and compare the averaged value with a first corresponding calibration value.

104. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 102 or 103, wherein the image processor is configured to determine a third value for the transition point between the water mark region and the background region.

105. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 104, wherein the image processor is configured to average the second and third values, and compare the averaged value with a second corresponding calibration value.

106. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 105, wherein the image processor is configured to generate the signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values substantially match the corresponding calibration values.

107. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 103, wherein the image processor is configured to generate a signal to pause to allow drying of the spot, so that a dry-spot digital image is acquired and processed.

108. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 107, wherein the image processor is configured to analyse the dry-spot digital image in according to a corresponding methodology as the spot, and to generate a signal to cease the MB titration if the averaged values for the dry-spot digital image substantially match the corresponding calibration values.

109. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 97 to 108, wherein the image processor is configured to determine contour boundaries between the central region of the spot and the outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and the water mark region, and between the water mark region and the background region.

110. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 109, wherein the contour boundaries are used to determine the dimensional properties that are used determine whether titration is complete.

111. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 110, wherein the image processor is configured to determine respective areas of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region based on the contour boundaries, and wherein the dimensional properties comprise the areas.

112. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 111, wherein the image processor is configured to use a pre-determined relationship between the areas and titration completion.

113. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 112, wherein the pre-determined relationship comprises ratios of the areas.

114. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 113, further comprising a sample preparation assembly for preparing the sample prior to adding the MB
increments.

115. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 114, wherein the sample preparation assembly comprises a pH adjustment unit for adjusting the pH of the sample to a pre-determined pH value.

116. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 115, wherein the pH adjustment unit comprises a pH sensor for measuring the pH of the sample.

117. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 116, wherein the pH adjustment unit comprises an acid addition device for adding an acid when the measured pH is above 5.

118. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 117, wherein the acid comprises sulfuric acid.

119. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 116 to 118, wherein the pH
adjustment unit comprises a base addition device for adding a base when the measured pH is below 3.

120. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 119, wherein the base comprises caustic.

121. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 115 to 120, wherein the pre-determined pH value is between 3.5 and 5.

122. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 115 to 121, wherein the pre-determined pH value is 4.

123. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 114 to 122, wherein the sample preparation assembly comprises a temperature control unit comprising a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the sample and configured to control the sample temperature at a target temperature during titration.

124. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 123, wherein the temperature control unit comprises heating means for heating the sample to maintain the target temperature.

125. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 123, wherein the heating means are configured to control the temperature and the target temperature that is between ambient temperature and 50°C.

126. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 114 to 125, wherein the sample preparation assembly comprises a pre-conditioning unit configured to pre-condition the sample to disperse clays therein prior to adding the MB increments.

127. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 126, wherein the pre-conditioning assembly comprises a mixer.

128. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 126 or 127, wherein the pre-conditioning assembly comprises a sonication device.

129. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 128, wherein the absorbent material is reusable for multiple automated titrations.

130. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 129, further comprising a regeneration unit configured for regenerating a used absorbent material to remove the spot therefrom and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.

131. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 130, wherein the reusable absorbent material is composed of a synthetic polymeric material.

132. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 130 or 131, wherein the regeneration unit comprises a washing unit for washing the reusable absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a washed absorbent material.

133. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 132, wherein the regeneration unit further comprises a drying unit for drying the washed absorbent material to produce a dried absorbent material for reuse.

134. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 133, further comprising a controller for controlling at least one of the following:
quantity of each MB increment that is supplied from the MB container to the sample holder;
activation and energy of the mixer;
activation and energy of the sample preparation unit, including one or more of the pH adjustment unit, the temperature control unit, or the pre-conditioning unit, or a combination thereof;
activation of the dispenser;
location of the absorbent material relative to the dispenser;
activation of the digital camera;
activation of each round of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor;
cessation of the titration based on the signal generated by the image processor; and coordination of movement and timing of components and fluids.

135. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 134, further comprising at least one robotic arm configured to manipulate the sample holder, the MB
container, the addition mechanism, the mixer, the dispenser, the absorbent material, the digital camera, or the image processor, or a combination thereof.

136. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 135, further comprising a transmitter configured to receive the MBI data from the image processor, and to transmit the MBI data to a receiver that is part of a downstream system.

137. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 136, wherein the downstream system comprises a flocculation unit and the MBI data is transmitted to a flocculant injector.

138. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 72 to 137, further comprising a support frame that is relocatable to at-line positions along a pipeline that transports a clay-containing stream.

139. An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing color and contour properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the color properties comprises:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based on the color and contour properties of the digital image of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

140. A system for dewatering a clay-containing aqueous material, comprising:
a flocculant addition unit for adding flocculant into the clay-containing aqueous material on a clay basis to produce flocculated tailings;

a dewatering unit receiving the flocculated tailings; and the automated MBI analyzer as defined in any one of claims 72 to 138, configured to receive clay-containing samples upstream of the flocculant addition unit;
wherein the flocculation addition unit is controlled at least in part based on the MBI
data generated by the automated MBI analyzer.

141. A method for dewatering a clay-containing aqueous material, comprising:
adding floccuant to the clay-containing aqueous material according to a clay-based dosage to produce flocculated tailings;
dewatering the flocculated tailings;
adjusting the clay-based dosage based on MBI data generated by the automated MBI analyzer as defined in any one of claims 72 to 138.

142. The automated MBI analyzer of any one of claims 3 to 65 or 72 to 133, further comprising at least one robotic arm configured to act as the mixer, the addition mechanism or the dispenser, or a combination thereof.

143. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 66 or 135, wherein the at least one robotic arm is further configured to act as the mixer.

144. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 143, wherein the at least one robotic arm is further configured to act as the addition mechanism.

145. The automated MBI analyzer of claim 144, wherein the at least one robotic arm is further configured to act as the dispenser.

146. An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
adding MB increments into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;

mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing dimensional properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the dimensional properties comprises:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based on contour properties of the digital image of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

147. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 146, further comprising assessing color properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, and wherein the processing of the digital image of the spot is further performed based on the color properties.

148. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 146 or 147, wherein the processing determines contour boundaries between regions of the spot.

149. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 146 or 147, wherein the processing determines contour boundaries between a central region of the spot and an outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and a water mark region, and between the water mark region and a background region.

150. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 149, wherein the contour boundaries are used to determine the dimensional properties that are used determine whether titration is complete.

151. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 150, further comprising determining respective areas of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region based on the contour boundaries, and wherein the dimensional properties comprise the areas.

152. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 151, further comprising using a pre-determined relationship between the areas and titration completion.

153. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 152, wherein the pre-determined relationship comprises ratios of the areas.

154. An automated methylene blue index (MBI) analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the pH of the sample and adjusting the pH to a pre-determined pH value to provide a pH-adjusted sample;
adding MB increments into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

155. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 154, wherein the adjusting of the pH
comprises adding an acid when the measured pH is above 5.

156. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 155, wherein the acid comprises sulfuric acid.

157. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 154 to 156, wherein the adjusting of the pH comprises adding a base when the measured pH is below 3.

158. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 157, wherein the base comprises caustic.

159. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 154 to 158, wherein the pre-determined pH value is between 3.5 and 5.

160. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 154 to 159, wherein the preparing further comprises measuring a temperature of the sample and controlling the sample temperature at a target temperature.

161. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 154 to 160, wherein the preparing further comprises pre-conditioning the sample to disperse clays therein prior to adding the MB increments.

162. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 161, wherein the pre-conditioning comprises mixing.

163. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 161 or 162, wherein the pre-conditioning comprises sonication.

164. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 154 to 163, wherein the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties.

165. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 164, wherein the dimensional properties comprise contour boundaries of different regions of the spot.

166. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 164 or 165, wherein the color properties comprise hue and chroma.

167. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 164 to 166, wherein the dimensional properties comprise determined areas of respective regions of the spot.

168. An automated MBI analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:

adding MB increments into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto a reusable absorbent material to form a spot;
assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample;
and after titration is complete, regenerating the used absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.

169. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 168, wherein the reusable absorbent material is composed of a synthetic polymeric material.

170. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 168 or 169, wherein the regenerating comprises washing the reusable absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a washed absorbent material.

171. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 168 to 170, wherein the regenerating further comprises drying the washed absorbent material to produce a dried absorbent material for reuse.

172. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 171, wherein the washing is performed using wash water.

173. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 171 or 172, wherein the drying is performed using air.

174. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 168 to 173, wherein the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties.

175. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 174, wherein the dimensional properties comprise contour boundaries of different regions of the spot.

176. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 174 or 175, wherein the color properties comprise hue and chroma.

177. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 174 to 176, wherein the dimensional properties comprise determined areas of respective regions of the spot.

178. An automated MBI analysis method for analyzing clay-containing samples, comprising:
subjecting a clay-containing sample to automated methylene blue (MB) titration, comprising:
preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the temperature of the sample and adjusting the temperature to a pre-determined temperature value to provide a temperature-controlled sample;
adding MB increments into the temperature-controlled sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring a digital image of the spot; and processing the digital image of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue MB titration of the clay-containing sample.

179. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 178, wherein the pre-determined temperature value is between ambient temperature and 50°C.

180. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 178 or 179, wherein the pre-determined temperature value is between 20°C and 30°C.

181. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 178 to 180, wherein the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties.

182. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 181, wherein the dimensional properties comprise contour boundaries of different regions of the spot.

183. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 181 or 182, wherein the color properties comprise hue and chroma.

184. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 181 to 183, wherein the dimensional properties comprise determined areas of respective regions of the spot.

185. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 178 to 184, wherein adjusting the temperature comprises providing heat to the sample at a heating rate to maintain a constant temperature of the sample.

186. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 178 to 184, wherein adjusting the temperature comprises providing a first heating to the sample to raise the temperature thereof to attain the pre-determined temperature value prior to adding the MB increments, and a second heating to maintain the sample at the pre-determined temperature throughout titration.

187. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 146 to 186, wherein acquiring the digital image of the spot is performed once the spot has dried.

188. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 146 to 186, wherein acquiring the digital image of the spot is performed while the spot is wet.

189. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 146 to 188, further comprising providing an optical filter or a software filter to filter the digital image.

190. The automated MBI analysis method of any one of claims 146 to 189, further comprising illuminating the spot with a top light source.

191. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 190, wherein the top light source is controlled to provide constant and uniform illumination.

192. The automated MBI analysis method of claim 190 or 191, further comprising providing a light confinement structure to reduce or avoid light interference.

193. An automated slurry analyzer for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
a sample holder configured to receive and hold the slurry samples;
a container configured to receive and contain a titration compound;
an addition mechanism for adding increments of the titration compound obtained from the container into the sample holder to produce a titration sample;
a mixer for mixing the titration sample;
a dispenser for dispensing a drop of the titration sample;
an absorbent material arranged with respect to the dispenser to receive the drop of the titration sample from the dispenser, to form a spot on the absorbent material;
a sensor positioned in spaced-apart relation relative to the absorbent material and configured to acquire digital information regarding the spot;
and a processor coupled to the sensor and configured to receive the digital information regarding the spot, determine at least dimensional properties of the digital information of the spot, determine whether titration is complete based on at least the dimensional properties, and provide a signal to cease or continue titration of the slurry sample, thereby providing titration data for the slurry samples.

194. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 193, wherein the titration compound comprises a titration dye.

195. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 194, wherein the titration dye comprises methylene blue.

196. The automated slurry analyzer of any one of claims 193 to 195, wherein the sensor comprises a digital light sensor.

197. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 196, wherein the digital light sensor is configured to sense visible light from the spot.

198. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 196, wherein the digital light sensor is configured to sense non-visible light from the spot.

199. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 198, wherein the non-visible light comprises infrared light.

200. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 198, wherein the non-visible light comprises ultraviolet light.

201. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 193, wherein the titration compound is selected to react with clay present in the slurry.

202. The automated slurry analyzer of any one of claims 193 to 201, wherein the processor is configured to determine light wavelength-based properties of the digital information.

203. The automated slurry analyzer of claim 202, wherein the light wavelength-based properties comprises color and hue.

204. An automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
adding increments of a titration compound into a sample holder to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;

dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing dimensional properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, wherein assessing the dimensional properties comprises:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot; and processing the digital light-based information regarding the spot to determine whether titration is complete, wherein the processing is performed based at least on contour properties of the digital light-based information of the spot; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample.

205. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 204, further comprising assessing color properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, and wherein the processing of the digital image of the spot is further performed based on the color properties.

206. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 204 or 205, wherein the processing determines contour boundaries between regions of the spot.

207. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 204 or 205, wherein the processing determines contour boundaries between a central region of the spot and an outer dye region of the spot, between the outer dye region of the spot and a water mark region, and between the water mark region and a background region.

208. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 207, wherein the contour boundaries are used to determine the dimensional properties that are used determine whether titration is complete.

209. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 208, further comprising determining respective areas of the central region of the spot, the outer dye region of the spot, and the water mark region based on the contour boundaries, and wherein the dimensional properties comprise the areas.

210. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 209, further comprising using a pre-determined relationship between the areas and titration completion.

211. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 210, wherein the pre-determined relationship comprises ratios of the areas.

212. An automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
preparing the slurry sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the pH of the sample and adjusting the pH
to a pre-determined pH value to provide a pH-adjusted sample;
adding increments of a titration compound into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot; and processing the digital light-based information of the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample.

213. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 212, wherein the adjusting of the pH comprises adding an acid when the measured pH is above 5.

214. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 213, wherein the acid comprises sulfuric acid.

215. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 212 to 214, wherein the adjusting of the pH comprises adding a base when the measured pH is below 3.

216. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 215, wherein the base comprises caustic.

217. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 212 to 216, wherein the pre-determined pH value is between 3.5 and 5.

218. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 212 to 217, wherein the preparing further comprises measuring a temperature of the sample and controlling the sample temperature at a target temperature.

219. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 212 to 218, wherein the preparing further comprises pre-conditioning the sample to disperse clays therein prior to adding the MB increments.

220. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 219, wherein the pre-conditioning comprises mixing.

221. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 219 or 220, wherein the pre-conditioning comprises sonication.

222. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 212 to 221, wherein the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties.

223. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 222, wherein the dimensional properties comprise contour boundaries of different regions of the spot.

224. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 222 or 223, wherein the color properties comprise hue and chroma.

225. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 222 to 224, wherein the dimensional properties comprise determined areas of respective regions of the spot.

226. An automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
adding increments of a titration compound into the prepared sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;

dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto a reusable absorbent material to form a spot;
assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot;
and processing the digital light-based information regarding the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample;
and after titration is complete, regenerating the used absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a regenerated absorbent material for reuse in a subsequent automated titration.

227. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 226, wherein the reusable absorbent material is composed of a synthetic polymeric material.

228. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 226 or 227, wherein the regenerating comprises washing the reusable absorbent material to remove the spot and produce a washed absorbent material.

229. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 226 to 228, wherein the regenerating further comprises drying the washed absorbent material to produce a dried absorbent material for reuse.

230. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 229, wherein the washing is performed using wash water.

231. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 229 or 230, wherein the drying is performed using air.

232. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 226 to 231, wherein the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties.

233. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 232, wherein the dimensional properties comprise contour boundaries of different regions of the spot.

234. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 232 or 233, wherein the color properties comprise hue and chroma.

235. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 232 to 234, wherein the dimensional properties comprise determined areas of respective regions of the spot.

236. An automated slurry analysis method for analyzing slurry samples, comprising:
subjecting a slurry sample to automated titration, comprising:
preparing the sample to provide a prepared sample, wherein the preparing comprises measuring the temperature of the sample and adjusting the temperature to a pre-determined temperature value to provide a temperature-controlled sample;
adding increments of a titration compound into the temperature-controlled sample to produce a titration sample;
mixing the titration sample;
dispensing a drop of the titration sample onto an absorbent material to form a spot; and assessing properties of the spot to evaluate the titration, comprising:
acquiring digital light-based information regarding the spot;
and processing the digital light-based information regarding the spot to determine whether titration is complete; and providing a signal to cease or continue the titration of the slurry sample.

237. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 236, wherein the pre-determined temperature value is between ambient temperature and 50°C.

238. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 236 or 237, wherein the pre-determined temperature value is between 20°C and 30°C.

239. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 236 to 238, wherein the properties comprise color properties and dimensional properties.

240. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 239, wherein the dimensional properties comprise contour boundaries of different regions of the spot.

241. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 239 or 240, wherein the color properties comprise hue and chroma.

242. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 239 to 241, wherein the dimensional properties comprise determined areas of respective regions of the spot.

243. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 236 to 242, wherein adjusting the temperature comprises providing heat to the sample at a heating rate to maintain a constant temperature of the sample.

244. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 236 to 242, wherein adjusting the temperature comprises providing a first heating to the sample to raise the temperature thereof to attain the pre-determined temperature value prior to adding the MB increments, and a second heating to maintain the sample at the pre-determined temperature throughout titration.

245. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 204 to 244, wherein acquiring the digital image of the spot is performed once the spot has dried.

246. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 204 to 244, wherein acquiring the digital image of the spot is performed while the spot is wet.

247. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 204 to 246, further comprising providing an optical filter or a software filter to filter the digital light-based information.

248. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 204 to 247, further comprising illuminating the spot with a top light source.

249. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 248, wherein the top light source is controlled to provide constant and uniform illumination.

250. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 248 or 249, further comprising providing a light confinement structure to reduce or avoid light interference.

251. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 204 to 250, wherein the slurry sample is a tailings pond sample.

252. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 204 to 250, wherein the slurry sample is an oil sands slurry sample.

253. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 252, wherein the oil sands slurry sample is obtained from an oil sands hydrotransport slurry.

254. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 252, wherein the oil sands slurry sample is obtained from an oil sands bitumen froth.

255. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 252, wherein the oil sands slurry sample is obtained from an oil sands slurry stream that is supplied to a secondary or tertiary separation unit.

256. The automated slurry analysis method of any one of claims 204 to 255, wherein the slurry sample is a clay-containing sample.

257. The automated slurry analysis method of claim any one of claims 204, 212, 226 or 236, wherein the titration compound comprises a titration dye.

258. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 257, wherein the titration dye comprises methylene blue.

259. The automated slurry analysis method of claim any one of claims 204, 212, 226 or 236, wherein the digital light-based information comprises a digital image of the spot.

260. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 259, wherein the digital light-based information is based on visible light.

261. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 259, wherein the digital light-based information is based on non-visible light.

262. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 261, wherein the non-visible light comprises infrared light.

263. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 261, wherein the non-visible light comprises ultraviolet light.

264. The automated slurry analysis method of claim any one of claims 204, 212, 226 or 236, wherein the titration compound is selected to react with clay present in the slurry sample.

265. The automated slurry analysis method of claim any one of claims 204, 212, 226 or 236, wherein the processing is performed to determine light wavelength-based properties of the digital light-based information.

266. The automated slurry analysis method of claim 265, wherein the light wavelength-based properties comprise color and hue.