Dissolution Behaviour of Fe-Co Alloy in Leaching of Sea-Nodule

Abstract

Recovery of cobalt from the ammoniacal leaching of polymetallic sea-nodules was often found around 50%, whereas copper and nickel recovered in the range of 90-95%. It is believed that Fe-Co alloy system form during reduction roasting is very stable to ammonia solution. To enhance the cobalt recovery some additives were selected and it was observed that by the use of these additives electrochemical dissolution rate increases in comparison to the system without any additive. Also, the presence of additive lowers the dissolution potential to –454 mV which is a requirement for better recovery of cobalt. Work was further extended with the use of metals powder in pure as well as mixed condition in presence these additives and it was found that cobalt recovery increased above 80%.