Title: Complex Utilization of Metallurgical Dusts as Secondary Sources of Rare and Precious Metals in Copper Smelting
Authors: Khojiev Sh.T., Toshkodirova R.E., Askarova N.M., Axmedova X.N., Shokirova O.A.
Volume: 9
Issue: 12
Pages: 99-110
Publication Date: 2025/12/28
Abstract:
Large volumes of metallurgical dusts generated during copper smelting and converting operations represent both an environmental challenge and a valuable secondary resource due to their complex polymetallic composition. In this study, an integrated processing approach was developed for the complex utilization of dusts originating from copper matte converting, Vanyukov furnace smelting, and oxygen-fuel flash smelting (INCO type). Comprehensive chemical, oxide-phase, and granulometric analyses revealed significant heterogeneity in dust composition, with soluble sulfate and oxide-sulfate phases dominating fine fractions, while refractory iron oxides, ferrites, and lead-bearing phases prevailed in coarser residues. A simple water leaching step under mild conditions was employed as the initial treatment to selectively dissolve water-soluble heavy metal compounds, primarily copper, zinc, and cadmium sulfates, without the use of aggressive reagents. Visual observations and phase separation behavior confirmed rapid transfer of these metals into the aqueous phase, while insoluble dense phases were retained in the solid residue. Subsequent gravity concentration of the leach residue using a shaking table enabled effective separation into light, intermediate, and heavy fractions. The heavy fraction was significantly enriched in lead-bearing compounds and acted as the main carrier of precious and platinum-group metals. The results demonstrate that the proposed combination of water leaching and gravity concentration provides a low-cost, environmentally benign, and flexible strategy for selective metal recovery from metallurgical dusts. The developed processing scheme reduces metal losses, enhances resource efficiency, and creates a solid foundation for downstream hydrometallurgical recovery of both base and precious metals, offering strong potential for industrial implementation.