Optimized ore processing using molten salts for leaching and thermal energy source

摘要

A method for the electrolytic production of pure copper from copper-containing compounds dissolved in a high-temperature bath of molten salts which function as an electrolyte in an electrolytic cell. An electric current is passed between an anode immersed in the copper-ion rich molten salt bath and a cathode or cathode-lined kettle in which the molten salt bath is contained, thereby reducing the dissolved copper ions to form pure molten copper. The deposited molten copper collects at the bottom of the kettle and can be separated from the molten salt bath using conventional means.