Extractive Metallurgy of Copper

This new edition has been extensively revised and updated since the 3rd edition published in 1994. It contains an even greater depth of industrial information, focussing on how copper metal is extracted from ore and scrap, and how this extraction could be made more efficient. Modern high intensity smelting processes are presented in detail, specifically flash, Contop, Isasmelt, Noranda, Teniente and direct-to-blister smelting. Considerable attention is paid to the control of SO emissions and manufacture of HSO. Recent developments in electrorefining, particularly stainless steel cathode technology are examined. Leaching, solvent extraction and electrowinning are evaluated together with their impact upon optimizing mineral resource utilization. The book demonstrates how recycling of copper and copper alloy scrap is an important source of copper and copper alloys. Copper quality control is also discussed and the book incorporates an important section on extraction economics. Each chapter is followed by a summary of concepts previously described and offers suggested further reading and references.

Overview. Production and use. Concentrating copper ores. Matte smelting fundamentals. Flash smelting - outokumpu process. Inco flash smelting. Noranda and teniente smelting. Ausmelt/isasmelt matte smelting. Batch converting of Cu matte. Continuous converting. Copper loss in slag. Direct-to-copper flash smelting. Mitsubishi continuous smelting/converting. Capture and fixation of sulfur. Fire refining and casting of anodes: sulfur and oxygen removal. electrolytic refining. Hydrometallurgical copper extraction: introduction and leaching. Solvent extraction transfer of cu from leach solution to electrolyte. Electrowinning. Collection and processing of recycled copper. Chemical metallurgy of copper recycling. Melting and casting. Costs of copper production