A heap leach process for chalcopyrite ores in acidic chlor 2026 Hydrometallu

While 70% of the world's copper resources are found in low-grade chalcopyrite ores, these are currently not amenable to heap leaching due to passivation of the mineral surface at ambient temperature. Several technologies have been developed for low-grade chalcopyrite ores, including microbial-assisted heap leaching and chloride-medium processes. This study proposes a chloride-medium heap leach process incorporating modifications to existing chloride technologies to address the economic viability for processing low-grade chalcopyrite ores. High copper concentrations are recycled over heaps to increase copper inventory while maintaining controlled irrigation rates to minimize costs and jarosite precipitation. The methodology involves utilizing low copper raffinate in low chloride concentration media to enhance air permeability and reduce acid consumption. By significantly lowering irrigation rates and addressing the challenges associated with traditional methods, this novel approach aims to facilitate economic heap leaching of low-grade chalcopyrite ores while enhancing extraction efficiency and addressing environmental concerns related to jarosite formation. Further investigation into the feasibility and performance of the proposed process is indicated to optimize operational parameters and maximize copper recovery.