This technology is a two-step method for leaching nickel from sulfides that can result in higher yield and improved production of nickel metal.
Current methods of producing nickel involve processing concentrates containing nickel sulfides using smelters or autoclaves that require high temperatures and pressures with long residence times. These methods can result in low nickel yield, are prohibitive to nickel production, and have detrimental environmental impacts.
This technology describes a two-step method for leaching nickel from sulfides. This process starts with a chemical reduction of the solid material, followed by an oxidation step. Both steps can be performed at reasonable temperatures and pressures. The resulting nickel in solution can be processed further to produce nickel metal or other nickel products, such as nickel-sulfates, that can be used for battery materials.
Patent Pending
IR CU23369
Licensing Contact: Dovina Qu