PHYSICO-CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGY OF HEAP LEACHING AT MKUJU RIVER DEPOSIT IN TANZANIA

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this work was to examine various aspects of the physico-chemical heap leaching technology at the Mkuju River in Tanzania. The objectives of the study were to determine the basic geotechnological conditions of the Mkuju River uranium deposit, conduct laboratory work on the study of various technological parameters and rock characteristics, as well as a thorough analysis of geotechnological zoning. Methods. The objectives of the research have been solved using the generally accepted methodological approaches to solving problems on ores with a disturbed and undisturbed material structure that have been selected from wells drilled at the Mkuju River Mine in Tanzania, which are being explored and exploited for uranium. Results. Based on the conducted studies, the main geotechnological and geological-hydrogeological conditions, natural factors and their influence were determined. Also, laboratory studies helped determine the technological parameters and their optimal values. The conclusion. Underground leaching is influenced by a large number of factors, and the study of geotechnological conditions of deposits is the basis for a quantitative and qualitative assessment of the interrelationships of natural and industrial components of the natural-industrial system. In this case, after determining the factors the adaptation of the in situ leaching method to specific geological and hydrogeological conditions is established.