In-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test device and method

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses an in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test device and method.The test device comprises a main body reaction system, the main body reaction system comprises a barrel, a temperature control assembly and a stress loading assembly, the barrel is used for containing a sample, the temperature control assembly is arranged in the barrel and used for regulating and controlling the temperature in the barrel, and the stress loading assembly is arranged in the barrel; the stress loading assembly is arranged in the cylinder body, and the stress loading assembly is used for applying pressure to the sample in the cylinder body. The temperature control assembly, the stress loading assembly, the leaching liquid injection system and the leaching liquid collection system are integrated, the temperature control precision is high, the range is wide, the pressure control precision is high, various test scenes and conditions are met, the device and the method achieve reproduction of an underground geological environment in a laboratory, indoor leaching simulation accurately regulates and controls the temperature and the pressure, and the test efficiency is improved. Simulation data is closer to underground leaching data including temperature and pressure field conditions; and the indoor simulation test research requirement on the intensified leaching of the complex and refractory mining body of the in-situ leaching uranium mining mine can be met.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of in-situ leaching mining technology for uranium mines, and more particularly to a simulation test apparatus and method for in-situ leaching uranium mining. Background Technology

[0002] CO2+O2 in-situ leaching is an important technology for in-situ uranium mining. Currently, the sandstone uranium ore bodies being mined are buried at depths of 100 to 900 meters, with complex geological conditions. As the depth increases, the temperature and pressure changes increase. Under normal geological conditions, the pressure increases approximately linearly with depth, with a gradient typically ranging from 0.98 MPa to 1.04 MPa / 100m (hydrostatic pressure characteristics). The geothermal variation of sandstone strata is comprehensively controlled by burial depth, thermal conductivity, pore water migration, and regional geothermal background. The geothermal gradient of sandstone is approximately 3℃ / 100m.

[0003] Meanwhile, the in-situ uranium leaching system involves multiphase states, multi-field coupling, and nonlinear complex changes in the physicochemical parameters of the ore layer. In actual mining, factors such as temperature and geostress in the strata have a certain impact on uranium leaching, but the mechanism by which factors such as temperature and geostress in the underground environment affect leaching efficiency is still unclear.

[0004] In-situ leaching (ISL) uranium mining simulation experiments are a crucial component of ISL research and application. By simulating the actual underground leaching process, these experiments investigate various physical, chemical, and fluid dynamic laws, providing key information and technical support for understanding and optimizing the ISL process, and acquiring relevant process parameters to guide actual mining operations. In actual ISL mining development, there is a need for enhanced leaching in complex and difficult-to-leach ore bodies. Traditional methods include chemical-enhanced leaching and physical-optimized well layout. However, traditional ISL simulation devices typically cannot reproduce the underground geological environment in a laboratory setting, failing to simulate real geological conditions and leading to significant discrepancies between laboratory data and actual field results. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The summary section introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This part of the invention is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0006] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related art.

[0007] Therefore, a first aspect of the present invention provides a simulated experimental apparatus for in-situ leaching uranium mining.

[0008] A second aspect of the present invention provides a method for simulating uranium mining through in-situ leaching.

[0009] In view of this, a simulated uranium mining apparatus for in-situ leaching is provided according to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, comprising: Includes a main reaction system, said main reaction system comprising: A cylindrical body for containing a sample; A temperature control component is disposed in the cylinder and is used to regulate the temperature inside the cylinder; A stress loading assembly is disposed inside the cylinder and is used to apply pressure to the sample inside the cylinder.

[0010] In one feasible implementation, the temperature control component includes: A heating element, which is wound around the cylinder; A temperature detection element is disposed inside the cylinder and is used to detect the temperature value inside the cylinder; A temperature control component, which controls the operation of the heating element according to the temperature value.

[0011] In one feasible implementation, the cylinder includes: An inner layer and an insulation layer, wherein the insulation layer is fitted over the inner layer; The cylinder is equipped with a cover, and the cover is provided with multiple device connection ports.

[0012] In one feasible implementation, the stress loading assembly includes: A fluid reservoir layer, the fluid reservoir layer being arranged in a ring shape, the inner side of the fluid reservoir layer being used to accommodate the sample, and the fluid reservoir layer being used to apply stress loading to the sample; A first pressure detection element is disposed in the fluid reservoir layer and is used to measure the pressure value of the fluid in the fluid reservoir layer. A hydrodynamic regulator is connected to the fluid reservoir layer and is used to adjust the pressure of the fluid in the fluid reservoir layer according to the pressure value.

[0013] In one feasible embodiment, the in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus further includes a fluid injection system, the fluid injection system comprising: The leaching solution injection unit includes a storage container and a pump body. The storage container is used to hold the leaching solution and is connected to the cylinder. The pump body is disposed in the storage container and is used to deliver the leaching solution to the cylinder. A first gas injection unit is connected to the liquid storage container and is used to deliver a first gas into the liquid storage container. The second gas injection unit is connected to the liquid storage container and is used to deliver a second gas into the liquid storage container.

[0014] In one feasible implementation, the first gas injection unit includes: A gas storage tank, the gas storage tank being used to contain gas; An input pipeline connects the gas storage tank and the liquid storage container; A flow control device is disposed on the input pipeline and is used to control the flow rate of gas delivered by the input pipeline; A second pressure sensor is disposed on the input pipeline for measuring the pressure of the input pipeline.

[0015] In one feasible implementation, the second gas injection unit and the first gas injection unit have the same structure.

[0016] In one feasible implementation, the liquid storage container is provided with a stirring assembly for mixing the gas and liquid in the liquid storage container.

[0017] In one feasible embodiment, the in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus further includes a leachate collection system, the leachate collection system comprising: A collection container for collecting leachate delivered from the cylinder; An output pipeline is provided, which connects the cylinder and the collection container. The output pipeline is equipped with a third pressure detection device, a pH monitoring device, and a sampling position.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a method for simulating in-situ leaching uranium mining is provided, applied to the in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus as described in any of the above technical solutions, the method comprising: The sample is loaded into the cylinder; Prepare the leaching solution; The leaching solution is injected into the cylinder; A preset pressure is applied to the sample by the stress loading component; The temperature control component is used to regulate the internal temperature of the cylinder to a preset temperature. A leaching solution is continuously supplied into the cylinder, and the leaching solution reacts with the sample inside the cylinder under stable temperature and pressure conditions. Continuously collect the leachate output from the cylinder; The leachate was analyzed.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation experimental device provided in this application includes a main reaction system, which comprises a cylinder, a temperature control component, and a stress loading component. The cylinder is used to contain the sample, the temperature control component is located within the cylinder and is used to regulate the temperature inside the cylinder, and the stress loading component is located inside the cylinder and is used to apply pressure to the sample inside the cylinder. This invention integrates the temperature control component, the stress loading component, the leaching solution injection system, and the leaching solution collection system, achieving independent or synergistic regulation of temperature and stress. It allows for systematic study of the influence of temperature and stress on the leaching process, significantly shortening the experimental cycle and saving research and development costs. This device and method achieve the reproduction of underground geological environments (temperature and pressure) in the laboratory, and the simulated leaching conditions are closer to real geological conditions. The experimental results are highly consistent with actual in-situ leaching uranium mining, providing a reliable basis for optimizing on-site leaching processes. It can be used not only for uranium leaching research but also for simulating the in-situ leaching process of other metals. In response to the need for enhanced leaching in complex and difficult-to-leach ore bodies in in-situ uranium mines, the designed device can meet the requirements of indoor simulated leaching test research to enhance leaching by changing underground geological conditions such as temperature and pressure.

[0020] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of an in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of the main reaction system of an in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of the main reaction system of an in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 A schematic flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test method provided in this application.

[0022] in, Figures 1 to 3 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows: 100 main reaction system, 200 fluid injection system, 300 leachate collection system, 400 samples; 110 Cylinder, 120 Temperature control assembly, 130 Stress loading assembly; 210 Leachate injection unit, 220 First gas injection unit, 230 Second gas injection unit; 310 Collection container, 320 Output pipeline; 111 Inner layer, 112 Insulation layer, 113 Cover; 121 Heating element, 122 Temperature detection element, 123 Temperature control element; 131 Fluid reservoir layer, 132 First pressure detection element, 133 Fluid dynamic regulating element; 211 Liquid storage container, 212 Pump body, 213 Stirring assembly, 214 Second valve; 221 Gas storage tank, 222 Input pipeline, 223 Flow control element, 224 Second pressure detection element, 225 First valve; 321 Third pressure detection element, 322 pH monitoring element, 323 Sampling position, 324 Third valve. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The following description provides numerous specific details to offer a more thorough understanding of the technical solutions provided by this invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the technical solutions provided by this invention can be implemented without one or more of these details.

[0024] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of the stated feature, integral, step, operation, part, and / or component, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0025] Exemplary embodiments according to the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of the invention is thorough and complete, and that the concept of these exemplary embodiments is fully conveyed to those skilled in the art.

[0026] To better understand the above technical solutions, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application and the specific features in the embodiments are detailed descriptions of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, rather than limitations on the technical solutions of this application. In the absence of conflict, the embodiments of this application and the technical features in the embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0027] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, according to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, a simulated experimental apparatus for in-situ leaching uranium mining includes a main reaction system 100, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the main reaction system 100 includes a cylinder 110, a temperature control component 120, and a stress loading component 130. The cylinder 110 is used to contain the sample 400. The temperature control component 120 is disposed in the cylinder 110 and is used to regulate the temperature inside the cylinder 110. The stress loading component 130 is disposed inside the cylinder 110 and is used to apply pressure to the sample 400 inside the cylinder 110.

[0028] This technical solution integrates a temperature control component 120, a stress loading component 130, a leaching solution injection system, and a leaching solution collection system to achieve independent or coordinated control of temperature (10℃–155℃ when room temperature is 10℃) and pressure (0–20MPa when the hydraulic cylinder is selected with a rated pressure of 15 MPa–30MPa). This allows for systematic study of the influence of temperature and pressure on the leaching process, significantly shortening the experimental cycle and saving R&D costs. It restores underground geological conditions, making the simulated leaching conditions closer to real geological formations. The experimental results show a significantly improved agreement with actual in-situ leaching of uranium, providing a reliable basis for optimizing on-site in-situ leaching processes. It can be used not only for uranium leaching research but also for simulating the in-situ leaching process of other metals. Addressing the need for enhanced leaching in complex and difficult-to-leach ore bodies in in-situ uranium mines, it meets the requirements for indoor simulated leaching experiments that enhance leaching by changing underground geological conditions such as temperature and pressure. The temperature control has high precision and a wide range, while the pressure control has high precision, meeting various experimental scenarios and conditions.

[0029] Understandably, this embodiment, through a highly integrated design, incorporates key physical parameters (temperature and pressure) affecting the efficiency of in-situ leaching uranium extraction into controllable variables. This enables the restoration of the underground geological environment, making the laboratory simulation data closer to leaching data containing underground temperature and pressure field conditions, providing a scientific basis for optimizing leaching parameters. This comprehensive simulation capability allows the laboratory environment to highly reproduce the real working conditions of complex deep underground strata, resulting in more representative and instructive data that directly serves the optimization and innovation of on-site processes, significantly improving research efficiency and economics.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown and Figure 3 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the temperature control assembly 120 includes a heating element 121, a temperature detection element 122, and a temperature control element 123. The heating element 121 is wound around the cylinder 110; the temperature detection element 122 is disposed inside the cylinder 110 and is used to detect the temperature value inside the cylinder 110; the temperature control element 123 is used to control the operation of the heating element 121 according to the temperature value.

[0031] In this technical solution, the heating element 121 is a spiral heating element, made of copper tube with an inner diameter of 8mm, a wall thickness of 1mm, and a pitch of 25mm. Heat transfer oil is introduced to achieve precise temperature control. The temperature detection element 122 is a PT100 patch-type temperature sensor, with 4-6 sensors evenly distributed and bonded to the inner wall of the cylinder 110. Its accuracy is 0.15℃~0.3℃, and its range is -200℃~400℃. The temperature control element 123 is a PID temperature controller with an accuracy of ±0.1℃~±1℃ and a range of -50℃~155℃. The PID temperature controller is a feedback control system based on the proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control algorithm. Its core working principle is to collect the temperature signal of the controlled object in real time, compare it with the preset target temperature, calculate the error value, and output a control signal to adjust the actuator (such as a heater or cooler) according to the adjustment effects of the proportional (P), integral (I), and derivative (D) links, ultimately achieving precise temperature control.

[0032] Understandably, this embodiment precisely controls the leaching simulation reaction temperature during the experiment using a PID temperature controller, a temperature sensor inside the cylinder 110, and a spiral heating element inside the cylinder 110. By employing a high-precision spiral heating element, multi-point distributed temperature sensors, and a PID intelligent control algorithm, a closed-loop precision temperature control system is constructed. This system offers high temperature control accuracy and a wide range, as well as high pressure control accuracy, meeting various experimental scenarios and conditions. The system enables rapid response and stable maintenance of the internal temperature of the cylinder 110, ensuring the uniformity and accuracy of the experimental temperature. This provides a reliable foundation for studying the influence of temperature on leaching kinetics and effectively avoids data distortion caused by temperature fluctuations.

[0033] like Figure 2 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the cylinder 110 includes an inner layer 111 and an insulation layer 112, with the insulation layer 112 fitted over the outer layer 111; the cylinder 110 is provided with a cover 113, on which multiple device connection ports are provided.

[0034] In this technical solution, the cylinder 110 is a cylindrical body with a double-layer structure, used to contain sample 400, which is a columnar rock core sample. The inner layer 111 is the pillar cavity, and the cylinder 110 is made of corrosion-resistant and pressure-resistant material, such as stainless steel, with an inner diameter of 70 mm to 110 mm and a length of 300 mm to 500 mm. The outer layer is a heating and insulation jacket, with a spiral heating element surrounding the inner cylinder 110 and wrapped with an insulation layer 112. The cover 113 is a removable sealing cover made of stainless steel, sealed with a rubber ring, equipped with a multi-channel interface, and a single-channel interface at the bottom for the leaching solution to flow out. The insulation layer 112 is made of silicate insulation material to maintain a constant temperature of the cylinder 110. The cover 113 is equipped with a three-channel interface, which is a leaching solution injection port, a hydraulic cylinder and liquid bladder layer connection port, and a temperature sensor and spiral heating element and PID temperature controller interface.

[0035] Understandably, the double-layer structure design of the cylinder 110 achieves functional separation and optimization: the inner layer 111 uses corrosion-resistant and pressure-resistant materials to ensure the safety and stability of the reaction environment; the outer layer combines heating elements and insulation layer 112 to form a highly efficient thermal management system. The removable sealing cover and multi-channel interface design greatly improve the integration, ease of operation, and expandability of the device, facilitating the connection of various fluids, sensors, and circuits, and simplifying installation, maintenance, and upgrades.

[0036] like Figure 3 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the stress loading assembly 130 includes a fluid reservoir layer 131, a first pressure sensing element 132, and a fluid dynamics regulating element 133. The fluid reservoir layer 131 is arranged in a ring shape, and the inner side of the fluid reservoir layer 131 is used to accommodate a sample 400. The fluid reservoir layer 131 is used to apply pressure loading to the sample 400. The first pressure sensing element 132 is disposed in the fluid reservoir layer 131 and is used to measure the pressure value of the fluid in the fluid reservoir layer 131. The fluid dynamics regulating element 133 is connected to the fluid reservoir layer 131 and is used to adjust the pressure of the fluid in the fluid reservoir layer 131 according to the pressure value.

[0037] In this technical solution, the fluid reservoir layer 131 is a liquid bladder layer surrounding the columnar core sample. The hydrodynamic regulating component 133 includes a hydraulic cylinder and a pressure controller. The liquid bladder layer is connected to the external hydraulic cylinder, which applies pressure to simulate the radial pressure experienced by the underground ore body and strata during actual uranium leaching. The liquid bladder layer adopts a three-layer composite structure (PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) + aramid + stainless steel mesh). The PTFE lining serves as an anti-corrosion seal and reduces friction; the aramid reinforcement layer provides tensile and impact resistance; and the stainless steel mesh provides radial stiffness and suppresses deformation. The interior is filled with nitrogen. The pressure controller is an integrated PID pressure controller (with built-in sensor). The PID pressure controller (accuracy ±0.5% FS (full scale), range 0~40MPa) is an industrial control device that applies the PID (proportional-integral-derivative) control algorithm to pressure regulation. Its typical accuracy is ±0.5% FS (full scale), and it is mainly used to achieve precise and constant control of pressure (such as air pressure, hydraulic pressure, vacuum pressure, etc.). The hydraulic cylinder is selected to meet the requirement of rated pressure ≥ 1.5 times the maximum design pressure. Here, the rated pressure is selected as 15 MPa to 30 MPa. The leaching simulation reaction pressure is precisely controlled by the PID pressure controller, hydraulic cylinder and liquid bladder layer.

[0038] Understandably, this embodiment, through its innovative liquid bladder structure, achieves uniform, flexible, and controllable radial pressure loading on the core sample, realistically simulating underground pressure conditions. The three-layer composite structure of the liquid bladder balances corrosion resistance, sealing, strength, and stability, ensuring long-term reliable operation under high pressure. Combined with a PID pressure controller and hydraulic cylinders, a high-precision closed-loop pressure control system is formed, capable of accurately setting and maintaining the pressure level required for the experiment, providing a key means to explore the mechanism by which pressure affects the permeability and leaching efficiency of ore bodies.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus further includes a fluid injection system 200. The fluid injection system 200 includes a leaching liquid injection unit 210, a first gas injection unit 220, and a second gas injection unit 230. The leaching liquid injection unit 210 includes a storage container 211 and a pump body 212. The storage container 211 is used to contain the leaching liquid and is connected to the cylinder 110. The pump body 212 is disposed in the storage container 211 and is used to transport the leaching liquid to the cylinder 110. The first gas injection unit 220 is connected to the storage container 211 and is used to deliver a first gas into the storage container 211. The second gas injection unit 230 is connected to the storage container 211 and is used to deliver a second gas into the storage container 211.

[0040] In this technical solution, the first gas injection unit 220 is a CO2 injection unit, and the second gas injection unit 230 is an O2 injection unit. The pump body 212 is a plunger pump, specifically a single plunger pump. The liquid storage container 211 is a gas-liquid mixing device, made of stainless steel, with a volume of 15L to 20L, used for stirring and mixing CO2 gas, O2 gas, and formation water.

[0041] Understandably, this embodiment achieves precise preparation and stable delivery of the leaching solution by constructing an integrated fluid injection system 200. This system can independently control the injection of the two key gases, CO2 and O2, and thoroughly mix them with formation water, thereby accurately simulating the chemical environment of the leaching solution in in-situ uranium leaching. The use of a plunger pump ensures that the leaching solution is injected into the reaction vessel 110 at a constant flow rate and pressure, guaranteeing the stability and repeatability of the experimental conditions and providing a foundation for studying the leaching behavior of uranium under different chemical conditions.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the first gas injection unit 220 includes a gas storage tank 221, an input pipeline 222, a flow control element 223, and a second pressure detection element 224. The gas storage tank 221 is used to contain gas; the input pipeline 222 connects the gas storage tank 221 and the liquid storage container 211; the flow control element 223 is disposed on the input pipeline 222 and is used to control the gas flow rate delivered by the input pipeline 222; the second pressure detection element 224 is arranged on the input pipeline 222 and is used to measure the pressure of the input pipeline 222.

[0043] In this technical solution, the first gas injection unit 220 is a CO2 injection unit, and the gas storage tank 221 is a CO2 cylinder used to store CO2. The flow control component 223 is a CO2 flow controller, which uses a differential pressure flow meter to control the flow rate and quality of CO2 delivery. The second pressure detection component 224 is a pressure gauge used to monitor the pressure value in the gas pipeline.

[0044] Understandably, by equipping the CO2 gas injection system with dedicated flow and pressure control units, precise control of the CO2 injection rate is achieved. Differential pressure flow meters accurately measure and control the gas mass flow rate, while pressure gauges monitor pipeline pressure in real time, ensuring the safety and stability of the gas injection process. This precise control capability is crucial for adjusting the pH and chemical composition of the leaching solution, directly affecting the uranium leaching efficiency and chemical reaction pathway.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, in one feasible implementation, the second gas injection unit 230 and the first gas injection unit 220 have the same structure.

[0046] In this technical solution, the second gas injection unit 230 is an O2 injection unit, and the gas storage tank 221 of the second gas injection unit 230 is an O2 gas cylinder used to store O2. The flow control component 223 is an O2 flow controller, which uses a differential pressure flow meter to control the flow rate and quality of O2 delivery. A pressure gauge is also provided to monitor the gas pipeline pressure.

[0047] Understandably, using the same structural design as the CO2 injection unit to control O2 injection ensures the symmetry and consistency of the two gas control systems. This not only simplifies system design, manufacturing, and maintenance but also ensures equally precise control over the injection amount of O2, a key oxidant. By independently and precisely adjusting the O2 flow rate, the redox potential of the leaching solution can be effectively controlled, thereby enabling in-depth research into the impact of oxidation conditions on uranium leaching kinetics.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, a stirring assembly 213 is provided on the liquid storage container 211, which is used to mix the gas and liquid in the liquid storage container 211.

[0049] In this technical solution, the stirring assembly 213 is a magnetic stirrer, specifically a self-priming magnetic stirrer. The gas-liquid mixing device has a multi-channel, detachable sealed top plate, which is connected to the CO2 gas pipeline, the O2 gas pipeline, the magnetic stirrer, and the leaching solution output pipeline, respectively.

[0050] Understandably, by integrating a magnetic stirrer into the storage container 211, the injected CO2 and O2 gases are ensured to mix rapidly and uniformly with the formation water, forming a chemically homogeneous leachate. The self-priming magnetic stirrer eliminates the need for mechanical seals, avoiding the leakage risks associated with traditional stirring methods and ensuring the system's sealing and safety. This efficient mixing method is a prerequisite for ensuring stable chemical composition of the leachate and consistent experimental conditions, which is crucial for obtaining reliable leaching data.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus further includes a leachate collection system 300, which includes a collection container 310 and an output pipeline 320. The collection container 310 is used to collect the leachate transported from the cylinder 110. The output pipeline 320 connects the cylinder 110 and the collection container 310, and is equipped with a third pressure detection element 321, a pH monitoring element 322, and a sampling position 323.

[0052] In this technical solution, the collection container 310 is a stainless steel storage tank used to collect the leachate transported from the reaction vessel 110. A third valve 324 is installed on the output pipeline 320 to control the transport and flow of the leachate. The third pressure detection element 321 is a pressure gauge used to monitor the pressure values ​​in the liquid pipeline and the reaction vessel 110. The pH monitoring element 322 is an online pH monitoring device integrated into the monitoring and control system for real-time monitoring of the pH value of the leachate. The sampling position 323 is a sampling port used for sampling and analysis.

[0053] Understandably, the comprehensive leachate collection and online monitoring system enables real-time tracking and dynamic analysis of the leaching process. The online pH monitoring device continuously records changes in the acidity and alkalinity of the leachate, providing immediate data for understanding the chemical reaction process. Pressure gauges ensure the safe operation of the entire fluid loop. The sampling port allows researchers to obtain leachate samples periodically for precise offline analysis without interrupting the experiment, thereby comprehensively understanding the changing patterns of uranium leaching rate, leaching percentage, and other key indicators.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, according to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a method for simulating in-situ leaching uranium mining is proposed, applied to an in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus as described in any of the above technical solutions. The method for simulating in-situ leaching uranium mining includes: Step 501: Load sample 400 into cylinder 110; Step 502: Prepare the leaching solution; Step 503: Inject the leaching solution into the cylinder 110; Step 504: Apply a preset pressure to the sample 400 through the stress loading assembly 130; Step 505: Adjust the internal temperature of the cylinder 110 to the preset temperature using the temperature control component 120; Step 506: Continuously supply the leaching solution into the cylinder 110, and the leaching solution reacts with the sample 400 in the cylinder 110 under stable temperature and pressure conditions; Step 507: Continuously collect the leachate output from cylinder 110; Step 508: Analyze the leachate.

[0055] The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test method provided in this application embodiment, because it is applied to the detection device of any of the above-mentioned technical solutions, therefore the in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test method has all the beneficial effects of the detection device of the above-mentioned technical solutions.

[0056] In this technical solution, the step of loading the sample 400 into the cylinder 110 includes: determining the length and diameter of the columnar core sample according to the experimental requirements, drilling and preparing the sample, opening the reaction cylinder 110 to load the prepared core sample, and closing the sealing cap.

[0057] In this technical solution, the method for preparing the leaching solution includes the following steps: Formation water loading: Load the pre-prepared formation water into the gas-liquid mixing device and close the sealing top plate. CO2 injection: Ensure all valves and switches are closed, open the first valve 225 and flow controller on the input pipeline 222 of the CO2 injection unit, and inject the preset amount of CO2 into the gas-liquid mixing device. After injection, close the first valve 225. O2 injection: Open the first valve 225 and flow controller on the input pipeline 222 of the O2 injection unit, and inject the preset amount of O2 into the gas-liquid mixing device. After injection, close the first valve 225. Leaching solution preparation: Turn on the magnetic stirrer to allow the introduced CO2 and O2 to fully mix and dissolve with the formation water. After the magnetic stirrer has been stirring stably for 1 hour, turn off the magnetic stirrer.

[0058] In this technical solution, the method of injecting the leaching solution into the cylinder 110 includes the following steps: opening the second valve 214, the third valve 324 and the plunger pump to transport the leaching solution in the gas-liquid mixing device into the cylinder 110; when the sampling port shows that the solution is flowing out, closing the second valve 214, the third valve 324 and the plunger pump.

[0059] In this technical solution, the method of applying a preset pressure to the sample 400 through the stress loading component 130 includes the following steps: turning on the pressure controller switch, setting the pressure value in the pre-set solution, starting the hydraulic cylinder, and waiting for the pressure inside the reaction cylinder 110 to reach and stabilize to the set pressure.

[0060] In this technical solution, the method of regulating the temperature inside the cylinder 110 to a preset temperature by the temperature control component 120 includes the following steps: turning on the PID temperature controller switch, setting the temperature value in the pre-set scheme, and waiting for the temperature inside the reaction cylinder 110 to reach and stabilize to the set temperature value.

[0061] In this technical solution, the method of continuously supplying the leaching solution into the cylinder 110 includes opening the second valve 214 of the leaching solution injection unit 210 and the plunger pump, and the leaching solution reacts with the sample 400 in the cylinder 110 under stable temperature and pressure conditions. In this technical solution, the method for continuously collecting the leachate output from the cylinder 110 includes: opening the third valve 324 and the plunger pump, and setting the flow rate.

[0062] In this technical solution, the method for analyzing the leachate includes: pH data monitoring and sampling analysis: The online pH monitoring device is turned on to monitor the pH value of the leachate in real time, data is recorded as needed, and the experiment is adjusted based on the monitored values. Samples are taken from the sampling port, for example, by connecting an automatic sampling device, and the obtained sample 400 is analyzed and tested.

[0063] In this embodiment, taking a sample 400 from a sandstone-type uranium mine at a burial depth of 900m as an example, this device (reaction cylinder 110 with an inner diameter of 70mm and a length of 300mm) is used to conduct a simulation test.

[0064] 1. Set temperature and pressure values. Based on the geological characteristics of the sample 400, set the initial conditions. If the temperature and pressure at sampling location 323 have measured values, set the simulation test conditions based on the measured values. If there are no measured values, estimate the temperature and pressure values ​​at sampling location 323 and set the simulation test conditions.

[0065] T = T0 + (G × H) / 100 (T0: average annual surface temperature, G: geothermal gradient of sandstone, H: target depth), (T0 = 15℃, G = 3.3℃ / 100m, H = 900m). The calculated T = 44.7℃. Because the strata contain large amounts of mudstone and siltstone with higher thermal conductivity than sandstone, the simulated temperature is set slightly higher than the theoretical calculated temperature, therefore T = 50℃ is set.

[0066] The pressure value is taken as an empirical value of 10 MPa - 15 MPa.

[0067] Initial conditions are set as follows: temperature 50℃, pressure 13MPa.

[0068] 2. Prepare core samples. Cut 40mm×290mm columnar core samples and load them into cylinder 110, then close the cover 113.

[0069] 3. Inject formation water. Open the sealing top plate of storage container 211, introduce formation water, and close the sealing top plate.

[0070] 4. Inject CO2 and O2. Close all valves, open the first valve 225 and flow control 223 of the first gas injection unit 220, and inject the calculated amount of CO2 (3 grams) into the storage container 211. Close the valve after injection. Open the first valve 225 and flow control 223 of the second gas injection unit 230, and inject the calculated amount of O2 (5 grams) into the storage container 211. Close the valve after injection.

[0071] 5. Preparation of leachate. Turn on the stirring unit 213 to allow the introduced CO2 and O2 to mix and dissolve fully with the formation water. After the stirring unit 213 has been stirring stably for 1 hour, turn it off.

[0072] 6. Injection of leaching solution. Open the second valve 214, the third valve 324 and the plunger pump of the leaching solution injection unit 210 to deliver the leaching solution in the storage container 211 to the cylinder 110. When the sampling position 323 of the output pipeline 320 shows that solution is flowing out, close the second valve 214, the third valve 324 and the plunger pump.

[0073] 7. Apply pressure. Turn on the pressure controller, set the pressure to 13 MPa, start the hydraulic cylinder, and wait for the pressure inside the cylinder 110 to reach and stabilize at 13 MPa.

[0074] 8. Temperature application. Turn on the PID temperature controller, set the temperature to 50℃, and wait for the temperature inside the cylinder 110 to reach and maintain 50℃.

[0075] 9. Leaching reaction. Open the second valve 214, the third valve 324 and the plunger pump of the leaching solution injection unit 210, and set the flow rate to continuously deliver the leaching solution into the cylinder 110.

[0076] 10. Continuously collect the leaching solution, monitor the parameter changes of pH monitoring device 322 in real time, analyze the results of sample 400 in a timely manner, and make dynamic adjustments to the experiment.

[0077] This embodiment demonstrates that the temperature and pressure adjustable CO2+O2 in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test device and method accurately control the temperature and pressure during the in-situ leaching uranium mining experiment under simulated geological conditions, more realistically simulating the underground physical conditions of leaching and ensuring the reliability of the experimental data.

[0078] In this invention, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance; the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0079] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or unit referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0080] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0081] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A simulated experimental device for in-situ leaching uranium mining, characterized in that, Includes a main reaction system, said main reaction system comprising: A cylindrical body for containing a sample; A temperature control component is disposed in the cylinder and is used to regulate the temperature inside the cylinder; A stress loading assembly is disposed inside the cylinder and is used to apply pressure to the sample inside the cylinder.

2. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature control component includes: A heating element, which is wound around the cylinder; A temperature detection element is disposed inside the cylinder and is used to detect the temperature value inside the cylinder; A temperature control component, which controls the operation of the heating element according to the temperature value.

3. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cylindrical body includes: An inner layer and an insulation layer, wherein the insulation layer is fitted over the inner layer; The cylinder is equipped with a cover, and the cover is provided with multiple device connection ports.

4. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stress loading component includes: A fluid reservoir layer, the fluid reservoir layer being arranged in a ring shape, the inner side of the fluid reservoir layer being used to contain the sample, and the fluid reservoir layer being used to apply pressure to the sample; A first pressure detection element is disposed in the fluid reservoir layer and is used to measure the pressure value of the fluid in the fluid reservoir layer. A hydrodynamic regulator is connected to the fluid reservoir layer and is used to adjust the pressure of the fluid in the fluid reservoir layer according to the pressure value.

5. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a fluid injection system, which comprises: The leaching solution injection unit includes a storage container and a pump body. The storage container is used to hold the leaching solution and is connected to the cylinder. The pump body is disposed in the storage container and is used to deliver the leaching solution to the cylinder. A first gas injection unit is connected to the liquid storage container and is used to deliver a first gas into the liquid storage container. The second gas injection unit is connected to the liquid storage container and is used to deliver a second gas into the liquid storage container.

6. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first gas injection unit includes: A gas storage tank, the gas storage tank being used to contain gas; An input pipeline, which connects the gas storage tank and the liquid storage container; A flow control device is disposed on the input pipeline and is used to control the flow rate of gas delivered by the input pipeline; A second pressure sensor is disposed on the input pipeline for measuring the pressure of the input pipeline.

7. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second gas injection unit has the same structure as the first gas injection unit.

8. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The liquid storage container is equipped with a stirring component, which is used to mix the gas and liquid in the liquid storage container.

9. The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a leachate collection system, the leachate collection system comprising: A collection container for collecting leachate delivered from the cylinder; An output pipeline is provided, which connects the cylinder and the collection container. The output pipeline is equipped with a third pressure detection device, a pH monitoring device, and a sampling position.

10. A method for simulating uranium mining through in-situ leaching, characterized in that, The in-situ leaching uranium mining simulation test apparatus, as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, comprises the following: The sample is loaded into the cylinder; Prepare the leaching solution; The leaching solution is injected into the cylinder; A preset pressure is applied to the sample by the stress loading component; The temperature control component is used to regulate the internal temperature of the cylinder to a preset temperature. A leaching solution is continuously supplied into the cylinder, and the leaching solution reacts with the sample inside the cylinder under stable temperature and pressure conditions. Continuously collect the leachate output from the cylinder; The leachate was analyzed.

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