NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN HYDROMETALLURGICAL COPPER ORE AND CONCENTRATE LEACHING

The hydrometallurgical treatment of copper ores and concentrates is evolving, focusing on the direct extraction of copper from chalcopyrite ores as an alternative to traditional flotation-smelting methods. Collaborative efforts by Jetti Resources and the University of British Columbia, alongside the JX Nippon Group, have led to innovative chalcopyrite heap leaching processes. Moreover, biological heap leaching techniques are advancing simultaneously, making these direct leaching technologies particularly appealing for arsenical ores. Atmospheric leaching of copper concentrates remains a viable option, complemented by autoclave processing, with the Galvanox™ Process being at the forefront of commercialization efforts through InCoR Galvanox Holdings, under a license from the University of British Columbia. This process effectively treats chalcopyrite and enargite concentrates, achieving high copper extraction while simultaneously precipitating arsenic as scorodite. Additionally, rapid oxidative leaching technologies such as FLSmidth's ROL and Glencore's Albion Copper Process are gaining traction. The Ecometales PLCC project will utilize high-temperature pressure oxidation to treat arsenic-laden copper concentrates, integrating existing copper SX-EW facilities to produce cathode copper while addressing acid demands for heap and dump leaching operations.