Metso has launched its efficient Cu POX leaching process to, it says, address the needs of the copper extraction industry.
As ore compositions change due to depletion of deposits and increasing environmental and efficiency demands, this cutting-edge solution not only maximises copper recovery but also reduces environmental impact, Metso claims.
The Metso Cu POX process is a proven hydrometallurgical method for the treatment of copper sulphide concentrates at lower capacities. The heart of this process is Metso’s proprietary OKTOP® Autoclave unit, where copper concentrate is oxidised under high pressure and temperature. This results in a copper-bearing pregnant leach solution (PLS) to be further treated in SX-EW processes, where copper is recovered as high-purity LME Grade A cathodes.
Petteri Pesonen, Technology Manager, Copper Hydrometallurgy at Metso, said: “Copper sulphide minerals require specialized leaching conditions to achieve high recovery rates. Metso’s Cu POX leaching utilises high-temperature oxidation to convert sulphide sulphur into sulphate and sulphuric acid, ensuring efficient copper dissolution. This technology offers a high-performance solution with high, up to 99%, copper recovery rates, ensuring maximum extraction of valuable metals from the ore. The process also minimises environmental impact by reducing emissions and optimising the use of resources through, for example, closed loop process steps reducing the use of water.”
The flexible and scalable Cu POX process accommodates various capacities and raw material compositions. The pre-designed process and equipment package enables fast ramp-up to production and integrates seamlessly with SX-EW infrastructure. The Cu POX plant can also be implemented to improve existing heap leaching – SX-EW operations to complete depleting heap leaching PLS production. In all cases, Metso can provide end-to-end expertise from batch tests, modelling and pilot tests to engineering, equipment deliveries and plant commissioning, and training. In addition, Metso provides services, spare parts and digital solutions to optimise continuous process and plant performance.