Overview of technologies and prospects for underground uranium mining

The relevance of research into underground uranium mining is underpinned by the growing demand for a stable supply of nuclear raw materials for atomic energy, which is regarded as a key factor in ensuring energy security amid the ongoing global energy crisis. Given the scarcity of high-grade ores and the necessity to exploit low-grade deposits, particular attention is drawn to the implementation of advanced leaching technologies directly within underground ore blocks. The objective of this study was to investigate and assess the efficiency of underground block leaching for uranium, considering the geological conditions of Ukrainian deposits, and to evaluate its prospects for enhancing the economic performance of mining enterprises. The research employed methods including analysis of the geological and structural features of ore deposits, simulation of leaching processes, and techno-economic assessment of block leaching under the specific conditions of Ukrainian uraniumbearing formations. A comparative analysis was conducted between conventional uranium mining techniques and advanced underground leaching technologies. The principal findings demonstrated that underground block leaching significantly reduces the costs associated with mining and processing of low-grade uranium ores, minimises environmental impact, and enhances the profitability of mining operations. Furthermore, the study confirmed that the geological and hydrogeological conditions of Ukraine’s uranium deposits are favourable for the implementation of this technology. The application of block leaching facilitates the expansion of the raw material base by incorporating low-grade and substandard ores that were previously not considered for industrial exploitation. The practical value of the study lies in its potential to enhance the economic efficiency of mining enterprises, reduce mining and processing costs, and mitigate the adverse effects on the environment. The implementation of underground block leaching will contribute to the sustainable development of Ukraine’s uranium industry