The effect of radio-waves irradiation on copper-ore leaching

In this study, focused radio wave (RW) assisted leaching was investigated for the first time to considerably enhance the efficiency of copper leaching from its low-grade ores. For this purpose, the effect of exposure to radio wave electromagnetic irradiation was experimentally investigated. Two series of leaching tests were conducted, in the form of agitated slurry and fixed-bed column modes. The experimental results indicated a significant improvement of recovery in both modes. The most probable mechanisms for enhanced recoveries could be the dielectric heating through concentrated irradiation. For less than 24 h of leaching in the fixed-bed column under irradiation, the recovery improved by about 40% (similar to 60% for leaching vs. similar to 100% for RF leaching), as compared to the same tests with no irradiation, while the agitated leaching tests showed an increase of up to 10% under irradiation. It is concluded that electromagnetic technology, even in the range of radiofrequency (<10(9) Hz), has the potential to be used to improve the rate and the final copper recovery from copper ores.

Automated summary

The study investigated the use of focused radio wave (RW) assisted leaching to enhance the efficiency of copper leaching from low-grade ores. Experimental results demonstrated significant improvements in recovery rates, with the most probable mechanism being dielectric heating through concentrated irradiation. The recovery in fixed-bed column mode increased by 40% under irradiation, while agitated leaching tests showed a 10% increase in recovery.