Copper extraction from coppered steel sheet - using an electrolytic solution of ammoniacal ammonium phosphate or ammoniac

摘要

Cu may be extracted from coppered steels using an electrolyte of ammoniacal ammonium phosphate or ammoniacal ammonium borate. The solns. contain 3 to 5g NH3/l 10 to 15g. (NH4)3PO4/l or 5 to 10g. NH3/l and 15 to 65g. ammonium borate-calculated using (NH4)3BO3. The current density can be between 30A/m2 and 170A/m2 and is pref. 35A/m2 to 130A/m2. The anode is a basket type and contains the coppered material. The process does not passivate the anode, use or produce corrosive substances and avoids copper by-prods. or large amts. of Cu dissolved in the electrolyte.