Recovering uranium with a lighter footprint
Heathgate’s in-situ recovery (ISR) method uses a network of wells rather than conventional excavation. It is controlled and closely monitored, with the aim of minimising surface disturbance.
In-situ recovery (ISR) explained
We drill into the ore zone and circulate a solution that dissolves uranium minerals in the host rock. The uranium-rich solution is then pumped back to the surface through extraction wells for processing.
Processing
At the processing plant, uranium is recovered through ion exchange to produce uranium oxide concentrate. The product is then dried and packed for shipment.
TODO: caption
Wellfields and rehabilitation
Our mine is made up of wellfields. When a wellfield is depleted, we remove infrastructure, seal and cap wells, and restore the area as part of progressive rehabilitation under approved plans.
ISR means:
No digging
No tunnelling
No open pits
No tailings