Abstract: A process for the continuous leaching of ores and an apparatus for practising this continuous leaching process are disclosed. According to this process, a plurality of unit layers composed of a pulverized uranium ore or other ore are continuously laminated while a minimum necessary amount of an acid, alkali or organic solvent (hereinafter referred to as "solvent") is uniformly sprinkled on the flat surfaces of these unit layers. In the state where the concentration of the solvent mixed into the ore is maintained at a high level, the heat generated by exothermic reaction caused by contact among the solvent, ore and water is effectively stored and used for thermally curing the ore. According to this process, the speed of extraction of the intended metal component can be increased, the leaching time shortened and the filtration characteristics improved, whereby a highly concentrated pregnant liquor can be recovered at a high efficiency.

Abstract: A process for the continuous leaching of ores and an apparatus for practicing this continuous leaching process are disclosed. According to this process, a plurality of unit layers composed of a pulverized uranium ore or other ore are continuously laminated while a minimum necessary amount of an acid, alkali or organic solvent (hereinafter referred to as "solvent") is uniformly sprinkled on the flat surfaces of these unit layers. In the state where the concentration of the solvent mixed into the ore is maintained at a high level, the heat generated by exothermic reaction caused by contact among the solvent, ore and water is effectively stored and used for thermally curing the ore. According to this process, the speed of extraction of the intended metal component can be increased, the leaching time shortened and the filtration characteristics improved, whereby a highly concentrated pregnant liquor can be recovered at a high efficiency.