MERCURY RECOVERY PROCESS

摘要

A process and apparatus for the recovery of heavy metals from a heavy metal-contaminated material wherein the heavy metal, or particles containing the heavy metal, are separated from the material by a hydraulic mineral separator. The process and apparatus may be used, for example, in removing or recovering of mercury from a mercury-contaminated soil, caustic sludge, or similar material. The process provides a ready method for removal of mercury from mercury-contaminated materials or, more generally, heavy metals from heavy metal contaminated soils which process can allow recovery of the mercury or heavy metal for re-use. The apparatus allows for continuous operation of the mineral separator and automates various functions of the separator allowing for improved control of the process.