Method for extracting metals from ore
US3977865A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 16, 1974 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 1976 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 16, 1994 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC22B4/00
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method for extracting metals from ore by electrical discharge therethrough which melts the available metallic values into separated nuggets. Pulverized ore, preferably ionized, is supported upon one electrode and subjected to random discharge of electrical current from at least one opposing electrode. In one form, the ore contacts the opposing electrodes so that the ever changing paths of least resistance conduct the current therebetween to create the smelting heat. In another form, a multiplicity of closely spaced electrode points are spaced from the ore so that ever changing paths of least resistance "spikes" arc therebetween to create the smelting heat. This method is preferably protectively conducted between closely related electrodes contacting the ore therebetween and/or in an inert environment or immersed in a fluid. The electrical energy is intermittently applied at frequencies best suited to react efficiently on the ore involved, and the processing of ore and resultant production of solid fused metals is preferably continuous with the use of conveyor means delivering the same from the electrodes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.