Multiple processes coupling and reaction front propagation during in-situ leach mining: 1. theoretical analysis

In-situ leach mining is controlled by multiple processes coupling such as fluid flow in porous medium, mineral dissolution, aqueous species diffusion. The dynamic process can be studied from the movement of dissolution reaction front. The dynamic model of reaction front propagation is established based on the coupling and feedback among fluid flow, dissolution and diffusion. the morphological stability of reaction front and the main factors that affect the stability are analysed. The positive feedback between fluid flow and dissolution reaction leads to complex reaction front morphologies and has important influence on in-situ leach mining. (authors)