A novel low-energy process route for primary copper production utilising synergistic hydro- and pyrometallurgical processes. (2011–2014)
- Abstract:
- The energy consumption and carbon footprint in the production of copper from low grade ores can be significantly reduced by integrating and utilising the benefits of conventional hydrometallurgical leaching and pyrometallurgical processes. A key step in the new process route is the production of an intermediate copper hydroxy-sulfate precipitate to be used as a feed to a continuous copper converter. The fundamental research would a) identify the optimum chemistry and process conditions to produce a stable precipitate having suitable settling, filtration and handling properties , and b) determine the precipitation kinetics and mechanisms, thus enabling detailed design and commercial development of the proposed process to be undertaken.
- Grant type:
- ARC Linkage Projects
- Researchers:
-
-
Associate Professor
School of Chemical EngineeringFaculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology -
Emeritus Professor
School of Chemical EngineeringFaculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
-
- Funded by:
- Australian Research Council
