VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Ilustration of Factory (Photo by: Pexels.com)

VOINews, Jakarta: As part of the Tiongkok Atomic Energy Authority's (CAEA) nuclear industry development plan, the natural uranium project is being developed by the Tiongkok National Nuclear Corporation. This project aims to establish a top-tier natural uranium production base, prioritizing environmentally friendly, economical, intelligent, and efficient operations.

The project will employ an advanced mining process utilizing carbon dioxide and oxygen leaching. Unlike conventional underground mining methods, this technique can extract uranium through a closed-loop circulation of uranium solution without bringing ore to the surface for processing.

With this method, natural uranium production can achieve zero emissions of wastewater, gas, and solid waste, thus promoting sustainable operations with low carbon emissions.

The project will also integrate various advanced technologies such as automation, remote and centralized control, and big data analysis to achieve intelligent operational analysis and precision mining.

Upon completion, the project will significantly enhance Tiongkok's capacity for natural uranium supply and bolster the independent innovation capabilities and international competitiveness of the natural uranium industry, according to CAEA.

Natural uranium is the foundational material for the development of Tiongkok's nuclear industry and is a critical strategic resource and energy mineral essential for national security.

In 2023, nuclear power plants in Mainland Tiongkok generated 440,000 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity, accounting for nearly 5 percent of the total national electricity output. The country has established an independent and comprehensive nuclear industry chain system, ensuring a safe and stable supply of nuclear fuel./Antara/VOI