Cost-effective and safe extraction of copper from sulfide minerals

This technology offers a cost-effective and safe approach for extracting copper (Cu) from chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), the most abundant source of Cu, using a cerium redox couple.

Unmet Need: Enhanced efficiency and safety in copper extraction from chalcopyrite

Copper, essential for renewable energy technologies, is primarily extracted from the form of chalcopyrite (CuFeS2). Traditional extraction through pyrometallurgical processes is energy-intensive and environmentally harmful. To address these drawbacks, hydrometallurgical methods utilizing oxidative or reductive leaching with a vanadium redox couple have been developed. Although these methods reduce environmental impact, they are inefficient and require expensive reagents and the handling of hazardous chemicals.

The Technology: Cost-effective and safe hydrometallurgical extraction of copper using cerium redox couple

This technology employs a hydrometallurgical method using oxidative leaching with a cerium redox couple to extract copper from chalcopyrite (CuFeS2). Replacing traditional vanadium with cerium, this approach not only reduces costs but also avoids the production of hazardous byproducts such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S). This technology achieves a 60% copper extraction rate within 24 hours, a significant improvement over traditional methods. This method also enables the electrochemical recycling of reagents, enhancing sustainability.

Applications:

  • Copper extraction from chalcopyrite
  • Battery material development
  • Catalysis development for chemical reactions
  • Electronics material development
  • Metal extraction process

Advantages:

  • Cost-effective
  • Environmentally-friendly
  • Highly efficient
  • Non-hazardous

Lead Inventor:

Alan West, Ph.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Pending

Related Publications:

Tech Ventures Reference:

  • IR CU23272, CU22263
  • Licensing Contact: Dovina Qu