Abstract: Estimation of Ore Reserves for In-Situ Solution Mining Production Projects, with Emphasis on Uranium

Geoffrey G. Hunkin

The explorationist's resource estimate must be converted into a reserve computation which meets the standard needed by the producer and his capital sources. The standard exploration-assessment methods of vertical drill-hole, gross-gamma probe, and sporadic core-drill control are incapable of meeting "proven-ore" classification requirements. Systematic core drilling, chemical and mineralogical analysis, and field tests designed to indicate recovery potential on bulk samples must be carried out.

The distribution of uranium mineralization in Western sandstone-type deposits is not random, and the three-dimensional outline of mineralization required by the producer and mine designer is not developed by present ore reserve computer programs.

A special classification of ore reserves is proposed for solution mining which falls between the classic "proven-ore" and the "indicated" or "probable" classifications. It includes allowances for recovery losses by swept-volume efficiencies, leaching efficiencies, recovery-plant losses, and market values of the product.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90968©1977 AAPG-SEPM Annual Convention and Exhibition, Washington, DC