Abstract
The nature of the hydrothermal reaction between sphalerite and copper solutions was investigated in the range 160–225 °C. Digenite (Cu 1.8S) was the main reaction product at 160–212 °C, and chalcocite (Cu 2S) at 225 °C. The reaction was characterized by the formation of a compact layer of copper sulfide around the sphalerite nuclei. Final particles retained the size and shape of the original ZnS. Reaction rate followed a parabolic kinetic law. No significant effect of aqueous copper concentration was observed in the range 1–10 g/L. An activation energy of 147 kJ/mol was obtained, indicating kinetic control by solid-state counter diffusion of Cu + and Zn 2+ ions through the copper sulfide layer. A possible electrochemical mechanism is discussed. The removal of zinc from digenite or chalcocite bearing copper concentrates is effective at ∼225 °C, in which a high sphalerite conversion can be achieved in times allowing autoclave processing (∼1 h).
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
