Abstract: Based on the Gibson's nonlinear large strain consolidation theory, the secular equation of the large strain consolidation under the Lagrange coordinate system was formulated.Based on the series consolidation tests of the saturated fine tailings carried out in a research project of tailing dam construction with fine tailings in a copper mine in East China, the evolutionary process of the consolidation degree under the influence of deadweight and time factors, and the relationship of the consolidation degree with the granulometric composition and sub-layer thickness were analyzed.A comparison between the theoretical calculation result and the centrifuge test result was made, illustrating the applicability of large strain consolidation theory in the research of consolidation deformation of fine tailings.The research result has been used in a real case.

Key words: Saturated fine tailing soil, Large strain consolidation, Time factor, Tailing dam