Method for recovering copper by solvent extraction in alternate steps

摘要

An improved process is described for the recovery of copper from an aqueous feed solution using solvent extraction and electrowinning in which the electrowinning is preferably conducted in a first step wherein the electrolyte is flowing perpendicular to the cathode surface without auxiliary mixing of the electrolyte between electrodes, and a second step wherein the electrolyte is flowing parallel to the cathode surface. Solvent extraction of copper from the aqueous feed solution with a first organic extractant solution and solvent extraction of acid from an aqueous solution depleted in copper and enriched in acid with a second organic extractant solution are conducted in alternate steps to allow more complete recovery of copper.