Leaching is the process of extracting metal from the ore for refinement. Leaching is also referred to as the metallurgical process. It is also simply called metallurgy.
Leaching is the process of extracting metal from the ore for refinement. Leaching is also referred to as the metallurgical process. It is also simply called metallurgy.
The leaching process of extracting metal from the ore will depend on both the ore’s nature and the metal. There are no universal techniques used for extracting metal.
Mining Ore
Generally, ores are found deep within the earth. There are a few that occur within the first few meters under thesurface. Mining is the term that is used to describe the process of removing the ores from the earth. Ores that arenear the surface of the earth can be dug out directly. This process is referred to as open pit mining. Deep miningis defined as removing ores that are located at greater depths.
Crushing Ore
Typically the ore that is extracted will be in a large lump, which makes it necessary to break it into smallerpieces. This is done by hammering or using some type of jaw crusher. After the ore is broken into smallerpieces it is then pulverized until it reaches a powdered state.
Types of Processes to Remove Impurities
There are several different processes that can be used to separate the undesired parts of the ore. Leaching is justone of the many processes. Some of the other types of process include:
· Hand Picking: this is used for removing large impurities, but is extremely slow
· Gravity Method: this method is commonly used for oxide ores and uses a running stream of water to wash away the impurities.
· Magnetic Separation: This type of separation is typically used with hematite ore. It is done by dropping the powdered ore onto a conveyer belt that has a magnetic roller. The ore will stick to the magnet and the impurities will fall away.
· Froth Floatation: the ore is mixed with water and pine oil. The mixture is shaken and the froth will carry the particles to the surface.
Leaching Process
The leaching process is used with many different types of ore. Leaching uses chemicals to treat the ore. Thechemicals react with the ore and dissolve the active component. There are several reagents that are used for thisprocess, depending on the type of ore. Typically, oxide or sulfide is used as feed for the leaching process.
For example, to recover some precious metals such as silver, the leaching process is used. Using a cyanideprocess, the silver can be extracted from its ore. The powdered form of the ore is treated with a solution ofsodium cyanide. An air current is sent through the solution. The silver in the ore will be dissolved because ofthe formation of soluble sodium. This solution is then treated with a zinc scrap that is used to recover the silverfrom the solution.
Gold ore is extracted using a leaching process as well. The solution KCN is used to dissolve the ore and then thegold is recovered from the solution using electrolytic or precipitation methods.
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Mineralogy: History, Methods and More
The study of minerals and their structure, chemistry and physical properties is known as mineralogy. Mineralogy also encompasses several other processes, which include classification,distribution worldwide, formation, origin and utilization.
The Process of Open Pit Mining: Structure and Procedures
There are several forms of mining that are used to extract minerals and rocks from layers of earth and open-pit mining is one of these methods. This method uses a borrow or open pit and is most frequently used in situations where the desired rocks or minerals are located close to the earth’s surface.
Superalloys: Chemistry, Process Development, Uses and Costs
Superalloys are also referred to as high performance alloys. To be identified as a superalloy it must exhibit great mechanical strength, have good surface stability, have creep resistance when under high temperatures, and resist both oxidation and corrosion. The base of a superalloy is typically cobalt, nickel, or nickel iron.
