Abstract
Pyrite is an effective catalyst for the atmospheric leaching of chalcopyrite in iron sulfate media via the Galvanox™ process. However, not all pyrite samples have the same catalytic effect on the process. Techniques to enhance the catalytic properties of pyrite were investigated. Specifically, the effects of pyrite treated with silver (enhanced pyrite) on the kinetics of chalcopyrite leaching were examined with the aim of improving the Galvanox™ process. It has been shown that by pretreating natural pyrite samples with miniscule amounts of silver ions, the rate of chalcopyrite leaching increases dramatically. As little as 50 ppm silver on pyrite, or about 50 g silver (about 1.5 troy ounces) per tonne of pyrite, is sufficient to ensure rapid chalcopyrite leaching kinetics in the Galvanox™ process, regardless of the source of the pyrite. With this new process, the catalytic properties of pyrite are improved such that all pyrite samples accelerate the rate of copper extraction from chalcopyrite significantly.
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
