Nickel Recovery Optimization and Kinetic Study of Morowali Laterite Ore

Nickel plays a critical role in the mining industry. However, presence of nickel primary source sulfide minerals is decreasing. Focus has since turned to laterite ore, which contains up 80% Ni metal. The purpose this study was optimize leaching using sulfuric acid and conduct kinetic analysis discover mechanism that best controls process. To operating conditions, response surface method (RSM) with Box–Behnken design used. shrinking core Zhuravlev, Leshokin, Templeman (ZLT) models were used assess kinetics Mineral characterization also performed gain better understanding sample characteristics. At 2 M concentration, 10% solid–liquid ratio, 90 °C temperature, highest observed recovery 87% apparent activation energy 32.75 kJ/mol.