Mining of uranium and thorium ores

NACE code 07.21 covers the mining and extraction of uranium and thorium ores. These radioactive metals are essential for the nuclear power industry, which generates a significant portion of the world's electricity. The mining of uranium and thorium ores is a highly specialized and tightly regulated sector, playing a crucial role in the global energy landscape.

The primary production techniques used in the mining of uranium and thorium ores involve both surface and underground mining methods. Surface mining, such as open-pit or strip mining, is commonly employed where the ore deposits are located close to the earth's surface. Underground mining techniques, including shaft and tunnel mining, are used to access deeper ore deposits. The extracted ores then undergo various processing steps, including crushing, milling, and chemical extraction, to concentrate the valuable radioactive elements.

The mining of uranium and thorium ores requires significant capital investment in specialized equipment and infrastructure. Heavy machinery, such as excavators, trucks, and drilling rigs, are essential for the extraction process. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce with expertise in mining, geology, and nuclear engineering. Strict safety protocols and environmental regulations also necessitate the use of specialized protective gear and waste management systems.

The primary outputs of the uranium and thorium mining industry are the concentrated ores, which are then further processed and enriched for use in nuclear power plants and other nuclear applications. The output of this industry is primarily consumed by the 35.11 Nuclear power generation and 20.13 Manufacture of other inorganic basic chemicals sectors, which utilize the radioactive materials for energy production and various industrial applications.