Towards Environmentally Benign Pyrometallurgical Processes

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In the past, improvements to the current extraction methods and the development of new metal extraction processes were determined by both technical and economic factors. More recently, environmental factors have become another significant feature in determining the viability of a process. In this regard, for the research program described in this proposal, the major objective is to develop metal extraction processes that have less of an impact on the environment. In mineral and metal extraction processes, some of the major sources of energy remain carbonaceous or hydrocarbon-based. Ultimately, the carbon in these materials is converted into carbon dioxide and this contributes to global warming. To address this issue, a major focus of the work will be to investigate microwave processing techniques. The electrical energy utilized in these microwave processes can be relatively clean and also there are other potential advantages such as reduced gas throughputs and dust production. The field of microwave processing of minerals continues to expand and considerable progress has been made in understanding this complex technology and its application to extractive metallurgy. Currently, pyrometallurgical metal extraction is being somewhat displaced by hydrometallurgical processes, at least in part because hydrometallurgy is more environmentally friendly. The proposed research addresses this issue and could lead to greener pyrometallurgical processes and also builds on over ten years' experience in this new research field in metal extraction. Over the next five years, the research will focus on three potential microwave applications as follows: (1) microwave fragmentation studies, (2) microwave pyrovacuum processing and (3) microwave processing of coal. In addition, to the investigation of the proposed applications in this research program, information will be generated which can help define other potential applications. Furthermore, we will continue to determine the permittivities of the ores, concentrates and minerals of interest and ultimately produce a publishable compilation.