Comparison of various extractants for recovery of Copper from Sarcheshmeh Chalcopyrite concentrate Ammonia/Ammonium Carbonate Leaching

Abstract

Solvent extraction of copper from the copper leach solution obtained from the ammoniacal carbonate leaching of the Sarcheshmeh copper concentrate was carried out, and the performance of CP-150, LIX984N, and Kelex100 as well as the effects of different parameters involved were investigated. According to the results obtained, the extraction kinetics of all the three extractants was fast. High concentrations (7.5%, V/V) of CP-150 and Kelex100 were required to completely extract copper, while only 1% of LIX984N was sufficient. Addition of hexane to the diluent decreased the capability of CP-150 to extract copper, while it showed less effects on LIX984N and Kelex100. A desirable stripping of copper from the loaded organic phase could be obtained using H₂SO₄ solution.