Metso Launches Sustainable Copper Sulfide Leaching Process with High Recovery Rates

Metso has introduced its Cu POX leaching process, an advanced hydrometallurgical method designed to optimize copper recovery from sulfide concentrates while minimizing environmental impact. As copper ore compositions evolve due to deposit depletion and stricter environmental requirements, this innovative solution enhances efficiency and sustainability in copper extraction.

At the core of the Cu POX process is Metso’s proprietary OKTOP Autoclave unit, which oxidizes copper concentrates under high pressure and temperature. This process generates a copper-bearing pregnant leach solution (PLS), which is further processed through solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX-EW) to produce high-purity LME Grade A copper cathodes.

"Copper sulfide minerals require specialized leaching conditions to achieve high recovery rates. Metso’s Cu POX leaching ensures up to 99% copper recovery by converting sulfide sulfur into sulfate and sulfuric acid, optimizing dissolution while reducing emissions and resource consumption through closed-loop processing," said Petteri Pesonen, Technology Manager, Copper Hydrometallurgy at Metso.

The Cu POX process is flexible and scalable, allowing for integration with various raw materials and operational capacities. It can also be implemented alongside existing heap leaching operations to enhance efficiency and extend the lifespan of solvent extraction and electrowinning facilities. Metso provides full lifecycle support, including testing, modeling, equipment supply, commissioning, and optimization services.