A new technology created to significantly improve the recovery of copper from solvent extraction organics.

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APPLICATION

• Acid sulfate copper leach process liquors

• Use a soluble pH modifier that produces no precipitate in mixers

• Indirectly uses the cheapest alkali – limestone

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BENEFITS

• Neutralise acid generated in the extraction mixer-settlers to drive higher copper extraction

• Higher reagent loading

• No complex pH control necessary

• Easily incorporated in a “standard” Cu-SX flowsheet

• Simple retrofit to an existing plant

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Final raffinate concentration reduced from approx. 420 ppm Cu to <50 ppm Cu with the addition of pH modifier.

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STATUS

Patent lodged Application# PCT/AU2014/001024