Copper leaching technology claims a ‘99%’ recovery rate
Metso says its technology recovers the metal from lower-capacity copper-sulphide concentrates.
The Metso Cu POX leaching process is a hydrometallurgical method resulting in high-purity copper for London Metal Exchange Grade A cathodes.
Most copper ores currently mined are either oxide or sulphide ores. Metso's process covers both.
The procedure oxidises copper concentrates under high pressure and temperature, forming a copper-bearing pregnant leach solution that is further treated with solvent extraction and electrowinning to extract the non-ferrous metal.
Finnish industrial machinery company, Metso, claims the method is a closed-loop process.
'Metso’s Cu POX leaching utilises high-temperature oxidation to convert sulphide sulphur into sulphate and sulphuric acid, ensuring efficient copper dissolution.
'This technology offers a high-performance solution with high, up to 99%, copper-recovery rates, ensuring maximum extraction of valuable metals from the ore.
'The process also minimises environmental impact by reducing emissions and optimising the use of resources through, for example, closed-loop process steps reducing the use of water,' says Petteri Pesonen, Technology Manager, Copper Hydrometallurgy at Metso.
