Processing metal oxides using ionic liquids

摘要

A eutectic formed between choline chloride and urea is shown to be a good solvent for the dissolution of a range of metal oxides. It is demonstrated that this ambient temperature ionic liquid can be applied to the processing of electric arc furnace dust. Zinc and lead can be selectively removed and subsequently electrowon from the liquid. This leaves the insoluble iron and aluminosilicates, which can be recycled through the electric arc furnace.