Perspectives for Heap Leaching of Non-Ferrous Metals (Murmansk Region, Russia)

Abstract

The results of laboratory simulation of heap leaching of non-ferrous metals from dumps of the Allarechensk deposit, low-grade ore of the Nyud-II deposits, and processing wastes of the “Kola MMC” JSC are presented. It is known that cut-off grade sulphide ores from both abandoned and currently developed deposits, overburden rock and dressing tailings, while being a major source of non-ferrous metals, pose a serious environmental hazard if unprocessed. So, any reasonable utilization of rock waste dumps, tailings and unfreed ore is beneficial both from environmental and economical viewpoints. Such natural and man-made resources can be processed using heap leaching whereby a sulphuric acid solution, an oxidizer (oxygen, iron (III) ions etc.) and microorganisms (Thiobacillus ferrooxidans, Thiobacillus thiooxidans etc.) are fed both onto a heap surface and interior. Uniform spreading of the solution is achieved via a system of pools, drain gutters, networks of half-socket pipes, or spray - ing. The enriched solution leaking from under the heap is collected in gutters or pipes and sent to further processing.