Heap Leaching

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-013035",
  "term": "Heap Leaching",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. A process for recovery of minerals from heaps of crushed ore by percolation of a solvent (such as cyanide for gold, or ferric sulfate and sulfuric acid for copper) through the heap, followed by chemical processing of the lixiviant.\n\n2. The process of sprinkling chemicals on above ground piles of crushed uranium ore-bearing rock in a lined pit and collecting uranium through underground drains. Either acid or alkaline solutions may be used to remove uranium from the host ore rock.\n\n3. A process used for the recovery of copper from weathered ore and material from mine dumps. This process can also be applied to the sodium sulfide leaching of mercury ores.\n\n4. A process for recovery of minerals from heaps of crushed ore. The naturally occurring material from which a mineral or minerals of economic value can be extracted profitably or to satisfy social or political objectives. by percolation of a solvent (such as cyanide for gold, or ferric sulfate and sulfuric acid for copper) through the heap, followed by chemical processing of the lixiviant.",
  "subject": "Air",
  "references": [
    "Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Glossary",
    "RadTown Glossary",
    "IRS Coal Excise Tax - Appendix I, Glossary of Mining Terms"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/heap-leaching/"
}