Abstract
This study is focused on the extraction and recovery of gold and silver from thiourea acid leaching ore liquors. In a first step, extraction is performed using di(2-ethylhexyl)dithiophosphoric acid (D2EHDTPA). The extraction of gold and silver takes place simultaneously, allowing the removal of both metals in a single equipment under the same operational conditions. Each metal is then recovered by selective stripping, using NH4SCN/H2SO4 solutions to separate the silver from the D2EHDTPA. Such treatment is followed by a second stripping system, where a (NH4)2S2O3 solution is used to recover gold. A mathematical model is developed to represent all the operations in the process flowsheet. Through this model, it is predicted that, for properly selected operating conditions, recoveries higher than 99.9% for silver, gold and thiourea (to be recycled) can be obtained. The data predicted by the model has a good fit with previously reported experimental data. The proposed process is a more sustainable approach, in comparison with the traditional process involving cyanide, and has potential to be economically feasible.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Chemical Engineering and Processing - Process Intensification
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
