Solvent extraction in the process of metal separation

Abstract

n the hydro metallurgical processing; of ores and concentrates, the desiredmetals are leached in the suitable lixiviants Ionviog undesired f{nnguo in the residue. The leach solution ol)LuiIIed is purified before metal separation and recovery. The commercially available organic extractants such as hydroxyoximes,hydroxyquinoline substituted phosphoric acid, tertiary amine, etc have been used for the recovery of metals from acidic and alkaline s o l u t ion s containing copper, nickel, and cobalt, zinc, chromium, tungsten etc. The applicability of tailor made extractants a v a i I a b 1 e commercially is described for the purification and enrichment of the metal contents of the lean solutions. The treatment procedures of solutions so obtained for producing metals in the desired forms by crystallization or electrowinning, are highlighted.