China starts construction of largest natural uranium production project

China’s largest natural uranium production project commenced construction on Friday in Ordos, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, according to the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA).

Xinhua News Agency reported that the project, developed by China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), aligns with the CAEA’s plan for nuclear industry development.

The project aims to become a leading natural uranium production base, emphasising green, economical, intelligent, and efficient operations.

The project will use an advanced mining process that involves carbon dioxide and oxygen leaching. This method extracts uranium through a closed-loop circulation system, eliminating the need to bring ores to the surface for processing.

This approach allows for near-zero emissions of water, gas, and solid waste, promoting sustainable operations with a low carbon footprint.

The project will also incorporate automation, remote control systems, and big data analysis for intelligent operation analysis and precise mining.

Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly enhance China’s capacity for natural uranium supply.

It will also aim to improve the domestic natural uranium industry’s independent innovation capabilities and international competitiveness, according to the CAEA.

Natural uranium serves as the foundation for China’s nuclear industry development. It acts as a crucial strategic resource and energy mineral, essential for ensuring national security.

In 2023, nuclear power in China produced around 440,000 gigawatt-hours of electricity, accounting for almost five per cent of the country’s total electricity generation.

China has developed a self-reliant nuclear industry chain to ensure a reliable and steady supply of nuclear fuel.

Attribution: WAM