The recovery of copper by leaching techniques has been practiced for centuries. In the U:iited States at the present time approximately 25 percent of the primary copper production is derived frnm leaching activities. Most of this production results from massive dump and heap leaching activitie: associated with large open-pit mines. Historically a small portion of copper is produced from small scale in situ leaching operations treating low-grade rock left from earlier mining activities. In situ leaching technology because of its intrinsic advantages over conventional mining and milling is being considerec as a viable option for recovering copper from both oxide and sulfide deposits.
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