How Did ISL Uranium Mining Begin
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The Origins of ISL Uranium Mining
Introduction
In 2004, In Situ Leach (ISL) mining contributed to 21% of the world’s uranium production, according to the World Nuclear Association. We spoke with leading ISL experts, including the "father of ISL," to unravel the origins and evolution of this crucial method, which powers nuclear plants worldwide.
A Misunderstood Beginning
Contrary to popular belief, ISL mining did not begin in Bruni, Texas, in 1973 with Westinghouse. Its actual roots trace back to Wyoming, 16 years earlier. This series delves into the true history of ISL mining, its trials over five decades, and its future role in U.S. nuclear energy.
The Pioneer: Charles Don Snow
Charles Don Snow, a geologist with Utah Construction Company, stumbled upon a revolutionary mining method in 1958 while investigating a Wyoming site. He witnessed R.T. Plum experimenting with a basic leaching solution at the Lucky June uranium mine. Observing the process, Snow envisioned its application at the Lucky Mc mine, where low-grade mineralization did not warrant traditional mining.
In a 1959 memorandum, Snow advocated for the leach-in-place process, suggesting that low-grade mineralization could yield significant profits. The method involved applying a leach solution to the ground, recovering it via wells, and processing it through an ion exchange circuit to extract uranium.
Utah Construction: The First Commercial ISL Miner
Throughout the 1960s, ISL mining thrived in Wyoming. Newspaper reports from that era highlight the success of Utah Construction’s ISL operations at Shirley Basin. This innovation was driven by the cost challenges of underground mining and the need for more efficient solutions.
The transition from underground mining involved using sulfuric acid initially, which reacted unfavorably with formation carbonates. Switching to nitric acid, despite its higher cost, overcame these challenges and paved the way for successful ISL operations.
Expansion and Commercialization
By the decade's end, ISL mining was the primary uranium production method at Shirley Basin. Contracts were secured with notable clients like General Electric and various international buyers, underscoring the method's efficacy and commercial viability.
Challenges and Adaptations
The growing demand for uranium in the 1970s led Utah Construction to shift to open-pit mining for larger-scale production. Even so, Snow’s early ISL experiments laid the groundwork for future innovations in the field.
The Legacy of ISL Mining
Snow’s pioneering work in Wyoming established the foundation for ISL mining’s development. While some operations later shifted to Texas, Wyoming remains a significant player in uranium production, with vast reserves surpassing those in Texas.
Conclusion
The history of ISL mining owes much to Charles Don Snow and his colleagues for transforming a rudimentary heap-leach experiment into a sophisticated, commercially viable technique. Their work continues to influence uranium mining practices and positions Wyoming as a leader in the industry.
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