Title: Sequential Hydrometallurgical Recovery of Mo, Ni, and Co from Technogenic Sulfate Media
Authors: Kholikulov D.B., Khudoymuratov Sh.J., Khojiev Sh.T., Mutalibkhonov S.S. Karshiboev Sh.B.,
Volume: 10
Issue: 6
Pages: 92-97
Publication Date: 2026/06/28
Abstract:
Technogenic sulfate solutions from spent hydrotreating catalysts and gas-scrubbing units serve as valuable sources of nickel (Ni), molybdenum (Mo), and cobalt (Co). Recovering these metals selectively provides direct economic and ecological advantages. We evaluate and integrate multiple hydrometallurgical pathways, including sulfuric-acid and ammoniacal leaching, solvent extraction, ion-exchange, and sulfide precipitation. Using experimental data from recent literature, we propose a flowsheet that sequentially recovers Mo, Ni, and Co. The process achieves high selectivity through precise adjustments to pH, redox potential, ligand concentration, and extractant type. Thermodynamic modeling and empirical extraction efficiencies confirm that combining these steps yields a viable and unified industrial process.