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Copper solvent extraction on the African Copperbelt: From historic origins to world-leading status

O.S. Tinkler, K.C. Sole

2023encoppersolvent extractionreviewhistoryAfrican Copperbelt

Abstract

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Approximately 20% of current world copper cathode output is produced using a hydrometallurgical process route, generally referred to as the leach–solvent extraction–electrowinning flowsheet. Since its commercialization in the late 1960s, steady improvements in the performance and efficiency of the solvent-extraction reagents and equipment, combined with significant developments in leaching and electrowinning, have broadened the variety of ore types suitable for this technology. This review aims to outline the historical development and evolution of copper solvent extractants and mixer-settler contactors, emphasizing the significance of the Copperbelt region in the commercial adoption of this technology. Opportunities and challenges presented by high-grade oxide ores of the Copperbelt are contrasted with the processing of solutions derived from low-grade mixed oxide–sulfide ore bodies that predominate in other geological contexts. The paper discusses the current status of hydrometallurgical copper production in the African Copperbelt within a global framework and provides a medium-term outlook for the technology.

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Cite This Work

@article{0595a36c-9d97-415e-8218-45b8f9e25b5d,
  title={Copper solvent extraction on the African Copperbelt: From historic origins to world-leading status},
  author={O.S. Tinkler and K.C. Sole},
  year={2023},
  language={en}
}
TY  - JOUR
TI  - Copper solvent extraction on the African Copperbelt: From historic origins to world-leading status
AU  - O.S. Tinkler
AU  - K.C. Sole
PY  - 2023
LA  - en
ER  -

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