Ion migration in in-situ leaching (ISL) of uranium: Field trial and reactive transport modelling

•The simulation provided a good reproduction of the dynamic evolution of fluid and the dynamic release of uranium.•The heterogeneous distribution of minerals led to differences in the uranium concentration.•The pollution plume and leaching area can be quantified by the model.•The volume fraction of uranium ore and reaction rate were the main factors affecting uranium leaching.•Fe2+ in the reinjection fluid had a significant negative effect on uranium leaching.