Recovery of Copper from Low Grade Ores by HNO3 Leaching: Process Optimization and Solvent Extraction Studies using Soybean Fatty Acid

This paper presents the recovery of copper from a Nigerian low-grade ore containing 4.08 wt. % Cu via nitric acid leaching, followed by solvent extraction using soybeans oil fatty extractant. The leaching tests on milled were done according to 3-factor Central Composite Design with time, concentration and temperature as selected process variables. Regression models developed experimental data for dissolution quantity extracted, effects individual variables their interactions determined studies analysis variance (ANOVA). Results indicate that depends mainly time. About 92 percent contents recovered at optimum 29.5 min, 81.25 oC 2.18 M, respectively. show can be extracted aqueous media acid, performance diluents in terms being MIBK > kerosene xylene.