Skip to main content
Conference Proceedings

First AusIMM International Geometallurgy Conference (GeoMet) 2011

Conference Proceedings

First AusIMM International Geometallurgy Conference (GeoMet) 2011

PDF Add to cart

Quantitative Clay Mineralogy for a Calcrete-Hosted Uranium Deposit - Innovative Application of Existing Technology on an Unprecedented Scale

An unprecedented, quantitative, deposit-scale understanding of major clay mineral distribution throughout the Yeelirrie uranium deposit has been achieved by adapting the existing HyLogger/HyChips analytical technique to measure resource assay pulps. Spectral analysis via HyLogger and HyChips systems has previously been used as a small-scale geometallurgical research tool, but never before has it been quantitatively applied to an entire resource sample population for the purpose of developing stand alone block models for major clay minerals. Economic uranium mineralisation within the thin but extensive Yeelirriepalaeochannelprimarily exists within the transition zone between a groundwater-derived calcrete and the underlying clay-quartz regolith. Early geometallurgical investigations identified that certain clay minerals could be deleterious to the efficiency of the uranium recovery process. Accurate calculation of clay mineralogy from resource assays proved too difficult due to chemical similarities between co-existing kaolinite, smectite and magnesium carbonate minerals. A relatively low-cost, efficient and accurate method of quantitative clay mineral analysis was required to measure over 70000 resource assay pulps. After initial testing and comparison with QXRD, the HyChips 3-1 spectral logging system was implemented as a primary method of clay mineral analysis for the Yeelirrie uranium deposit. The resultant spatial data set allowed the interpretation and geostatistical analysis of geometallurgical domains across the deposit. Clay block models were generated and used in geometallurgical resource calculations to benefit the mine planning process.
Return to parent product
  • Quantitative Clay Mineralogy for a Calcrete-Hosted Uranium Deposit - Innovative Application of Existing Technology on an Unprecedented Scale
    PDF
    This product is exclusive to Digital library subscription
  • Quantitative Clay Mineralogy for a Calcrete-Hosted Uranium Deposit - Innovative Application of Existing Technology on an Unprecedented Scale
    PDF
    Normal price $22.00
    Member price from $0.00
    Add to cart

    Fees above are GST inclusive

PD Hours
Approved activity
  • Published: 2011
  • PDF Size: 0.239 Mb.
  • Unique ID: P201110020

Our site uses cookies

We use these to improve your browser experience. By continuing to use the website you agree to the use of cookies.