What's Happening?
Metals One has signed an agreement with DISA Technologies to assess and potentially treat uranium mine waste dumps at the Uravan Belt Uranium-Vanadium Project in Colorado, US. The project, acquired by Metals One in July 2025, consists of 59 unpatented
mining claims near the historic Buckhorn Mine. The agreement aims to recover saleable uranium and other critical mineral concentrates from eight abandoned uranium waste dumps. DISA will lead exploration work at the site using high-pressure slurry ablation (HPSA) technology, which has been licensed by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission for remediation efforts. Metals One will receive a gross revenue share from the sale of uranium and critical mineral concentrates, while DISA will manage related costs.
Why It's Important?
This partnership is crucial as it addresses the environmental legacy of historical mining activities while tapping into valuable resources. The Uravan project is located within one of the US's most prolifically mined uranium belts, and the agreement with DISA represents a significant opportunity to remediate abandoned uranium mine waste. By recovering valuable uranium and critical minerals, the project aligns with US Government support for domestic mineral recovery, potentially reducing reliance on foreign sources. The initiative also highlights the importance of sustainable mining practices and the potential economic benefits of recovering critical minerals from waste.
What's Next?
The next steps include conducting a characterization program to estimate mineral quantities, securing necessary permits, and potentially selling metals concentrates. The revenues from these sales will be shared with Metals One. The successful implementation of DISA's HPSA technology could set a precedent for similar remediation projects, promoting environmental sustainability and resource recovery in the mining industry. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring the project's progress and its impact on the local environment and economy.
