Studies on the Extraction of Nickel from low-grade Nickeliferous Limonitic ores from Surabil-Sukerangi Kumardah Sector-Orissa

Low-grade nickeliferous limonitic ore from Surabil-Sukerangi, Kumardah Sector of Orissa was used for extraction of nickel by roast reduction and subsequent ammoniacal leaching. The ore as received contained 1.36% NiO; 53.76% total Fe; 0.085% CaO; 5.38% C2O3; 2.78% SiO2; 0.20 Al2O3, 0.60% MnO, and 1.124% MgO with traces of copper. The ore as received contained 1.36% NiO; 53.76% total Fe; 0.085% CaO; 5.38% C2O3; 2.78% SiO2; 0.20 Al2O3, 0.60%$ MnO, and 1.124% MgO with traces of copper. The significant factors in roast reduction temperature, particle size, and chemical kinetics. Upto 88% nickel recovery was obtained by reduction of the ore with hydrogen at 600°C for two hours followed by preconditioning and ammoniacal leaching at room temperatures under atmospheric pressure. Leaching efficiencies of various anions were studies were found to follow the order.
CO3> NO3>Cl>SO4