The Twelve Principles of Circular Hydrometallurgy

Abstract In this academic position paper, we propose the 12 Principles of a novel and more sustainable approach to hydrometallurgy that call “circular hydrometallurgy.” The paper intends set basis for identifying future areas research in field hydrometallurgy, while providing “sustainability” benchmark assessing existing processes technological developments. Circular refers designing energy-efficient resource-efficient flowsheets or unit consume minimum quantities reagents result waste. application circular involves new ways thinking about how is applied both primary secondary resources. either case, emphasis must be on regeneration reuse every reagent process. This not only acids bases employed leaching pH control, but also any reducing agents, oxidizing other auxiliary reagents. Likewise, consumption water energy reduced an absolute minimum. To consolidate concept hydrometallurgical flowsheets, present will boost sustainability: (1) regenerate reagents, (2) close loops, (3) prevent waste, (4) maximize mass, energy, space, time efficiency, (5) integrate materials flows, (6) safely dispose potentially harmful elements, (7) decrease activation (8) electrify wherever possible, (9) use benign chemicals, (10) reduce chemical diversity, (11) implement real-time analysis digital process (12) combine with zero-waste mining. Although realize choice these principles somewhat arbitrary could imagined some merged, are nevertheless convinced framework Principles, as put forward provides powerful tool show direction innovation industry academia. Graphical