Copper Extraction Process Explanation
Copper Extraction Process Explanation
◉ Extraction Equipment and Parameters
In copper extraction process, multi-stage countercurrent mixers and clarifiers are commonly used. The extraction parameters, including the number of extraction stages, the concentration of the extractant in the organic phase, the contact time of the two phases in the mixing chamber, the phase separation time in the clarifier, and the ratio of the two phases, need to be determined through experimentation. Extraction efficiency is not only affected by the properties of the extraction system but also closely related to the design level and processing quality of the mixing clarifiers. Once the extraction system is determined, the design and manufacturing quality of the equipment become key factors influencing extraction efficiency.
◉ Copper Extraction and Stripping Process
The two-phase flow and process of copper extraction can be detailed using Figure. From the figure, it is clear how the copper leach solution and organic phase move in reverse directions within the mixing clarifier. The copper leach solution enters the first stage mixing chamber from the bottom, where it meets the organic phase flowing from the second stage clarifier and undergoes extraction. By stirring, the two phases are thoroughly mixed, and the mixed liquid is sent to the clarifier, where the phases are allowed to settle and naturally separate. After the first stage of mixing and extraction, the copper leach solution and organic phase are separated in the clarifier, then flow into the second stage mixing chamber from the bottom of the clarifier. This cycle continues until the clarifier at the fourth stage, where the water phase is almost copper-free and is returned as residual water phase to the leaching solution in the heap.
In the stripping process, the operation is similar to extraction but with reversed roles: during extraction, the copper leach solution is the continuous phase, and the organic phase is the dispersed phase. In stripping, the organic phase becomes the continuous phase, and the water phase (stripping liquid) becomes the dispersed phase.
◉ Stripping Considerations
In copper extraction and stripping operations, the following points must be noted: first, the stability of the interface is crucial because any abnormalities at the interface can indicate the deterioration of the extraction process. Second, to prevent the formation of a third phase, the solid content in the copper leach solution must be strictly controlled, generally less than 2×10^-5, and should be checked and filtered. Lastly, the poor organic phase should be regularly purified to remove accumulated impurities like Si, Ca, Mg, etc.
Our metal extractants as below, if you need any kind, please ask us:
- P204 (D2EHPA or HDEHP) This is used for first step to remove impurity for laterite nickel ore.
- DY319 high efficiency nickel cobalt co-extraction extractant for battery recycle, can take out nickel and cobalt together from Lithium battery electrolyte.
- DY272 Nickel cobalt separation extractant, it can take cobalt out from nickel cobalt solution, then leave pure nickel.
- DY988N/DY973N/DY902/DY5640 copper solvent extraction reagent.
- P507 non-ferrous metal extractant for copper, zinc, cobalt-nickel, cadmium, gold-silver, platinum group metals, rare earths and so on.
- DY377 efficient nickel and diamond separation extractant.
- DY366 Scandium extractant.
- DY316 Lithium extractant.
