Copper extraction and stripping using LIX 984N in a Bateman pulsed column fitted with an intermediate decanter

摘要

The results of a test work campaign on the solvent extraction of copper is presented and discussed. The test work was carried out using 40-mm diameter pilot Bateman Pulsed Columns (BPC) at the Bateman Advanced Technologies laboratories and piloting facilities. Both the extraction and the stripping systems were studied using various pulsation intensities and fluxes. The novel concept of introducing an Intermediate Decanter (ID) for performing both the extraction and the stripping in one combined Bateman Pulsed Column was successfully tested. Following the success of this test work, an on-site test using 200-mm diameter semi-industrial BPC is currently being performed in a copper production site of Mexicana de Cananea.