Selected Ion Exchange Applications in the Hydrometallurgical Industry

Ion exchange is increasingly used in hydrometallurgical applications for the recovery or purification of metal solutions or for effluent treatment. This article reviews some recent applications, including the primary recovery of gold, uranium, and rhenium, and the purification of cobalt electrolyte to ensure high-purity metal by the removal of nickel, copper, zinc, and cadmium. Improved recoveries and adherence to environmental regulations can be achieved by treating barren slurry streams in a resin-in-pulp process. Ion exchange is also positioned to play an important role in the treatment of process water to enable recycling of such waters and reduce the demand on freshwater resources.