Optimizing the leaching conditions of chalcopyrite/pyrite concentrate in Sarcheshmeh Copper Complex using response surface methodology

Abstract

In the current study, the leaching conditions of chalcopyrite/pyrite concentrate were optimized by sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal leaching conditions were found to be a sulfuric acid concentration of 150 g/L, a hydrogen peroxide volume of 350 mL, a temperature of 80 °C, a leaching time of 8h and a solid–liquid ratio of 0.52 g/mL. After analysis of variance (ANOVA), the sulfuric acid concentration and temperature were the most significant process variables for the leaching concentrations of both copper and iron. Under the optimum conditions, the recovery of copper and iron was 81.83% and 67.57%, respectively.

Keywords:

• Chalcopyrite
• copper
• iron
• pyrite
• response surface methodology
• sulfuric acid

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to thank the manager and personnel of Sarcheshmeh copper complex for their support during this research.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Research and Development Division of National Iranian Copper Industries Company.