Authors: I. Ivanova, K. Fraser, K. Thomas and M. Mackenzie
ALTA 2009 Nickel-Cobalt, Copper & Uranium Conference, May 25-30 2009, Perth, W. Australia
Abstract
Uranium can be recovered by a wide variety of leaching and hydrometallurgical concentration processes. This means that an understanding of the major leaching and hydrometallurgy recovery processes is essential for a successful uranium project. The main acid and alkali leaching routes for both atmospheric and pressure leach plants are discussed with emphasis on the current
interest in heap and in situ leaching. Flowsheets are presented for a large number of pressure leach circuits together with operating data for these circuits. The chemistry of solvent extraction and resin ion exchange routes for uranium concentration are discussed. Design criteria for solvent extraction and ion exchange plants are discussed and some information on equipment selection is presented.
