Neutralisation and trace element removal from beverley in-situ recovery uranium mine barren lixiviant via hydrotalcite formation

Abstract

An assessment of hydrotalcite formation to neutralize acidity and remove trace elements was undertaken using barren lixiviant from Heathgate Resources’ Beverley in situ recovery uranium mine in South Australia. Batchscale studies demonstrated proof of concept for neutralization of acidity using MgO + NaAlO2 with concomitant removal of a range of trace elements. The hydrotalcite formed during neutralization, hosted a range of potential contaminants including substantial uranium (~ 1% U) and rare earth elements (~ 2% REE).