The combined effect of iron(III) and hydrogen peroxide for ferric sulfate leaching of a zinc sulfide concentrate Conference Paper uri icon

abstract

  • Leaching tests of a zinc sulfide (containing iron) concentrate in which the reduced iron(III) of the acid ferric solution employed was in situ regenerated, have shown that a good extraction of zinc can be achieved. It has also been shown that higher extractions of zinc are attained if the Fe concentration is maintained above 5 g/L. A comparison of leaching tests without an initial iron(III) concentration (using only acid and hydrogen peroxide) showed a lower overall extraction, but faster rate of extraction of zinc. However, the rate of extraction was very similar during the first hours of leaching independently of having an initial iron(III) concentration. It is suggested that a combination of initial iron(III) concentration and a controlled regeneration by hydrogen peroxide, with a low frequency of regeneration favors a higher extraction of zinc due to a lower diffusion limitation of iron(III) through the sulfur layer. The process of acid dissolution of zinc sulfide coupled to ferric leaching seems to contribute to the overall extraction of zinc.

publication date

  • 2008-01-01