Title: Analysis of the Process of Extracting Valuable Metals from Technogenic Solutions Formed During Copper Production: A Literature Review
Authors: Kholikulov D.B., Khudoymuratov Sh.J., Mutalibkhonov S.S.
Volume: 9
Issue: 11
Pages: 114-123
Publication Date: 2025/11/28
Abstract:
The growing demand for copper and associated valuable metals has intensified the need for efficient recovery processes from technogenic solutions generated during copper production. This comprehensive literature review examines the current state of knowledge on extracting valuable metals from technogenic solutions formed in copper smelting, refining, and processing operations. The study analyzes various extraction methodologies including hydrometallurgical techniques (leaching, solvent extraction, ion exchange, precipitation), pyrometallurgical approaches, bioleaching, electrochemical methods, membrane separation, and cementation processes. Recent scientific studies show that integrated multi-stage processes combining selective leaching, solvent extraction, and precipitation achieve copper recovery rates exceeding 95%, while simultaneously extracting zinc (>90%), iron (>85%), cobalt (>90%), and rare earth elements (>60%) from technogenic waste streams. Environmental impacts, kinetic models, thermodynamic parameters, and economic feasibility of various recovery routes are critically evaluated. The analysis demonstrates that hydrometallurgical processes generally exhibit lower environmental footprints compared to pyrometallurgical methods, with bioleaching emerging as a sustainable alternative for low-grade technogenic resources. Implementation of circular economy principles in copper production can reduce primary resource consumption by 40% while minimizing hazardous waste generation. This review provides insights into optimizing metal recovery from technogenic solutions, addressing technical challenges, and identifying future research directions for sustainable copper production systems.