Work

Assessment of Cobalt Recovery from Copper Tailings by Leaching with a Choline Chloride–Citric Acid Deep Eutectic Solvent: Effects of Pretreatment and Oxidant Use

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The accelerating global demand for cobalt, driven primarily by lithium-ion batteries, has intensified the search for alternative sources of supply. Mine tailings represent a promising secondary resource, particularly in regions with extensive mining histories such as Chile. This study evaluates cobalt leaching from copper tailings using a deep eutectic solvent (DES), choline chloride–citric acid (ChCl–CA), with controlled addition of hydrogen peroxide. The tailings were subjected to pretreatments (froth flotation, chlorination, and thermal roasting) and then leached with choline chloride–citric acid-based DES or H2SO4. Temperature, leaching time, and solid–liquid ratio were evaluated. Results show that roasting significantly enhanced cobalt recovery when followed by citric acid or DES leaching, reaching up to 100% Co recovery. Under optimized conditions, DES-based leaching was effective and selective in a polymetallic matrix and achieved recoveries comparable to or better than acid leaching without generating toxic emissions. Although flotation and chlorination had limited effects on overall recovery, the results demonstrate the viability of integrated and cleaner technologies for valorizing tailings that contain critical metals such as cobalt.

Source: Minerals

DOI: 10.3390/min15111187

Authors: Yahaira Barrueto, Juan Patricio Ibáñez, Miguel Veliz, Matias Santana, José Ojeda, Carlos Carlesi

Institutions: Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, The University of Queensland, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso

Language: English

Topic: Extraction and Separation Processes

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896