Geometallurgy of uranium deposits

Mineralogical controls exert significant control over the extraction of uranium from its ores. Uranium speciation, associated mineralogy, deportment and uranium mineral availability are all factors for consideration when assessing leachability. This study presents data from laboratory uranium extractions undertaken on several contrasting uranium ores from a wide range of orebodies. The results provide insight into the mineralogical factors of importance when considering uranium extraction. These results are presented within the wider context of geometallurgy and demonstrate how geometallurgical assessment, even at an early stage of mine development, can greatly assist in the design of a suitable extraction scheme. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.