Modeling of Solution Mining Systems for Deep Mineral Resources Recovery

摘要

Laboratory studies were carried out to identify and quantify the important processes operative in solution mining of minerals. Specifically, the kinetics of leaching copper from chalcopyrite-bearing ore particles were determined under various oxygen partial pressures and temperatures. The effect of particle size on the rate of leaching was also investigated. Computer simulation models to predict the copper recovery from an underground rubblized ore body were developed. One model describes the process in which oxygen-saturated leach solution is used with no bubbles in the bed. The other model is applicable when leach solution containing oxygen bubbles is used for leaching.