Extraction of metals from automotive shredder residue: Preliminary results of different leaching systems

Abstract

The study is focused on the extraction of valuable metals from automotive shredder residue (ASR) by different leaching solutions. First, ASR samples were roasted at 600°C to simulate a thermal treatment processing. Distilled water, citric and sulphuric acid were preliminarily investigated, thus two further full factorial systems entailing H2SO4–H2O2 and H2SO4–H2O2–Fe3+ were tested. The preliminary experimental results showed that 0.1mol·L−1 H2SO4 solution extracted 100% of Cu, Fe and Zn, whereas citric acid leached 100% of Zn and Pb, 59% of Fe and 62% of Cu; whereas, H2SO4–H2O2 and H2SO4–H2O2–Fe3+ (Fenton's) leaching media showed that Cu, Fe and Zn can be extracted simultaneously and completely from the ASR ashes before final disposal.