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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Process for leaching base elements, such as uranium ore, in situ

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6973339

A process is described for leaching base elements, such as uranium values, from an underground water saturated ore deposit containing oxidizable materials such as sulfides, carbon, and the like. An oxygen-bearing gas is introduced into the ore deposit prior to or simultaneously with a leach solution to oxidize the base elements within the ore deposit to a soluble state where they can then be dissolved in the leach solution. Thereafter, the pregnant solution is withdrawn and treated by conventional techniques to remove the base elements. (21 claims)

Assignee:
Union Carbide Corp.
Patent Number(s):
US 3708206
OSTI ID:
6973339
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English