Copper sulfides leaching assisted by acidic seawater-based media: Ionic strength and mechanism

The seawater is purified or pre-treated to obtain the acidic seawater-based media (ASM), which has been gradually utilized in copper hydrometallurgical industries, resulting in desirable copper recovery efficiency. In the chemical/bio leaching of chalcocite, chalcopyrite, and other low-grade copper sulfide minerals, the ASM is proved to have a good catalytic effect and it could potentially intervene the leaching reaction and interface condition. In this regard, to further understand the effects of ASM, this paper critically discussed the pivotal ions (ferric/ferrous ions, cupric/cuprous ions, elemental sulfur, passivation ions, silver catalytic ions, etc.) and its compounds, regeneration behavior in the leaching reaction. The current studies tightly related to the effects of these pivotal ions on the redox potential, reaction activation energy, and leaching kinetics were also comparatively analyzed. The tolerances of microorganisms and reactions to ASM were carefully explored. Relied on the previous studies and reviewing in this paper, it inferred that as an efficient, potential alternative of freshwater, the ASM could provide a good expected possibility to accelerate copper sulfide leaching, especially in areas with scarce water resources.

Automated summary

The paper critically discusses the utilization of acidic seawater-based media (ASM) in copper hydrometallurgical industries, highlighting its catalytic effects in chemical/bio leaching processes. It also explores the pivotal ions and compounds present in ASM, their regeneration behavior, and the impact on redox potential, reaction activation energy, and leaching kinetics. Furthermore, the potential of ASM as an alternative to freshwater for accelerating copper sulfide leaching in water-scarce areas is highlighted based on previous studies and reviews.