Removal of Sb Impurities in Copper Electrolyte and Evaluation of as and Fe Species in an Electrorefining Plant

Antimony and arsenic concentrations their oxidation states (Sb(III), Sb(V), As(III) As(V)) in copper electrorefining electrolyte can affect cathode quality through the formation of floating slimes. A laboratory-scale pilot plant was operated to remove Sb from commercial electrolyte. The consisted a pre-treatment process with shavings followed by ion exchange. results indicated that Sb(III) removed completely, while Sb(V) partially eliminated. As(V) were not affected, poisoning exchange resin Fe(III) avoided pre-reduction Fe(II) shavings. operation configuration applied design an industrial for Sb/Bi removal at Atlantic Copper Refinery Huelva, Spain. evolution Sb, Fe As species monitored prior after installation plant. show ca. 45% decrease total content (from 0.29 g L?1 0.16 L?1) This reduction is more noticeable Sb(III), whose concentration decreased 0.18 0.09 L?1, whereas diminished 0.11 0.07 L?1. also retained 75% Bi (0.15–0.22 L?1). increased during study period 7.7 9.0 due changes inputs. Arsenic predominantly (ca. 93–95%). experienced little variation (0.9–1.1 being main 94–96%).