Extraction of Copper from Sulfuric Acid Solutions Based on Pseudo-Liquid Membrane Technology

Area of Science:

• Chemical Engineering
• Separation Science
• Environmental Technology

Background:

• Pseudo-liquid membranes utilize a stationary liquid membrane phase between two chambers for continuous extraction.
• This method, termed multiphase pseudo-liquid membrane extraction, can be adapted using conventional equipment like extraction columns and mixer-settlers.
• The study focuses on copper extraction from sulfuric acid solutions using a specific organic membrane phase.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally investigate copper extraction from sulfuric acid solutions using a two-column three-phase extractor.
• To determine the key factors controlling copper extraction efficiency in this system.
• To explore methods for enhancing the purification of sulfuric acid wastewater from copper.

Main Methods:

• Experimental study of copper extraction using a two-column three-phase extraction apparatus.
• Utilized a 20% LIX-84 solution in dodecane as the membrane phase.
• Analyzed the influence of interfacial area on extraction efficiency.

Main Results:

• Copper extraction from sulfuric acid solutions was found to be controlled by the interfacial area in the extraction chamber.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of purifying sulfuric acid wastewater from copper using the developed three-phase extractor system.
• Identified perforated vibrating discs and multistage processes as potential enhancements for extraction efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The three-phase pseudo-liquid membrane extraction system is a viable method for copper removal from sulfuric acid wastewaters.
• Optimizing interfacial area is crucial for efficient copper extraction.
• Further improvements in efficiency can be achieved through equipment modifications like vibrating discs and implementing multistage extraction processes.