Dissolution Optimization of Copper from Anode Slime in H₂SO₄ Solutions

Abstract

In the present study, aimed at the extraction of copper and the concentration of precious metals in anode slime, the optimum process conditions were sought for the dissolution anode slime from the Sarkuysan Co. in Turkey. The blade number of the mechanical stirrer, reaction temperature, O2 flow rate, stirring speed, acid concentration, solid-to-liquid ratio, reaction period, and roasting temperature were chosen as parameters. Using the Taguchi method, the optimum process conditions, at which 99.67% Cu conversion was reached, were found as follows: blade number 1, reaction temperature 70 °C, O2 flow rate 1.24 × 10-6 m3·s-1, stirring speed 450 rpm, acid concentration 5.43 wt %, solid-to-liquid ratio 0.125 g/mL, reaction period 3600 s, and roasting temperature 300 °C.