IAEA'S OVERVIEW OF WORLDWIDE IN SITU LEACH URANIUM MINING

摘要

In situ leach or leaching (ISL), also called in situ recovery (ISR) uranium mining, has become one of the standard production methods for this energy metal. ISL's application to amenable uranium deposits, in certain sedimentary formations, has grown over the last two decades in consequence of its competitive production costs and low surface impacts. A recent IAEA publication (In Situ Leach Uranium Mining: An Overview of Operations, IAEA Nuclear Energy Series No. NF-T-1.4 (2016)), provides an historical overview and shows how ISL experience around the world can be used to direct the development of technical activities, taking into account environmental considerations and emphasizing the economics of the process, from exploration, development and operations to responsible mine closure. The publication provides information on how to design, operate and regulate current and future projects safely and efficiently, with a view to maximizing performance and minimizing negative environmental impact.