Difficulties in selecting oxidized copper ore have always been one of the challenges in the mining industry, as the flotation difficulty of oxidized copper ore is greater compared to sulfide copper ore. Here are some common new beneficiation processes for difficult-to-select oxidized copper ore.
1.Sulfide-Oxide Transformation Process
Method: This is a common method that involves reducing copper oxides in oxidized copper ore to sulfide copper before flotation.
Implementation: This can be achieved by using a reducing agent such as sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) during the leaching stage.
2.Cyanide Leaching Process
Method: Cyanide leaching is an effective method for extracting copper from oxidized copper ore. This process involves using a cyanide agent, such as sodium cyanide (NaCN), to convert copper oxides into soluble copper cyanides, which are then extracted through dissolution.
Applicability: Commonly used for low-grade oxidized copper ore.
3.Oxidized Copper Ore Reduction Process
Method: By reducing copper oxides in oxidized copper ore to floatable sulfide copper, followed by traditional sulfide copper ore flotation.
Reduction Methods: Reduction can be achieved through various methods such as hydrogen reduction, atmosphere reduction, etc.
4.High-Temperature Leaching Process
Method: Using high-temperature leaching methods, such as acid leaching or oxygen leaching at elevated temperatures, to convert copper in oxidized copper ore into floatable sulfide copper. This process can promote the conversion reaction of oxidized copper ore at high temperatures, increasing the flotation rate of copper.
5.Bioleaching Process
Method: Bioleaching is a method that utilizes microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi, to leach copper from oxidized copper ore. These microorganisms convert copper under suitable conditions, transforming it into floatable sulfide copper.
6.Alkaline Leaching Process
Method: Using alkaline conditions, with the presence of hydroxide ions (OH^-), to perform alkaline leaching on oxidized copper ore. Alkaline conditions promote the dissolution of copper oxides, forming floatable copper compounds.
The choice among these processes typically depends on ore characteristics, economic feasibility, environmental factors, etc. In practical applications, optimization and adjustments to the process flow are often necessary based on specific circumstances. Additionally, with continuous technological advancements, new extraction technologies and processes are emerging, influencing process choices.
