Copper solvent extraction and electrowinning process
US5849172A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 25, 1997 |
| Grant date | Dec 15, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 25, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P10/20
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An improved method and apparatus is provided for the production of copper using a solvent extraction electrowinning process. Process streams formed during the process containing entrained liquids are fed to a cyclone to remove either organic extractant or water (aqueous solutions) from the stream. A raffinate stream fed to a cyclone removes entrained organic phase which organic phase may be recycled to the process. The separated raffinate stream would then typically be recycled to the copper ore leach step to form a pregnant leach solution without the loss of organic solvent and/or the environmental concerns associated with entrained solvent. In a preferred new process, mixers, preferably inline, are used in conjunction with cyclones to provide a solvent extraction electrowinning process which is continuous and efficient and the use of conventional mixers, and particularly settlers, are eliminated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.