what's happening in copper hydromet - ALTA Metallurgical Services
what's happening in copper hydromet - ALTA Metallurgical Services
what's happening in copper hydromet - ALTA Metallurgical Services
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HIGH TEMPERATURE PRESSURE OXIDATION<br />
• Uses pressure oxidation with oxygen <strong>in</strong> an autoclave at<br />
200-225°C. Copper is solubilized as sulphate, iron precipitates<br />
as hematite. Sulphur forms metal sulphates and sulphuric acid.<br />
• Solid-liquid separation is carried out <strong>in</strong> CCD thickeners and/or<br />
filters.<br />
• Copper recovery from the clarified solution is by conventional<br />
SX/EW.<br />
• A raff<strong>in</strong>ate bleed is required to control the acid level <strong>in</strong> solution.<br />
The bleed stream is neutralized for disposal or used for leach<strong>in</strong>g<br />
associated oxide ore, for example by heap leach<strong>in</strong>g.<br />
• Well proven process for gold and z<strong>in</strong>c production.<br />
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