Modelling particle scale leach kinetics based on X-ray computed micro-tomography images

• DOI: 10.1016/j.hydromet.2016.02.008
• Publication Date: 2016-02-14T04:06:26Z
• Authors: Q. Lin; D.J. Barker; K.J. Dobson; P.D. Lee; S.J. Neethling
• Keywords: Heap leaching; Gangue; Particle (ecology); Hydrometallurgy; Selective leaching

The apparent leach kinetics for an ore particle within a heap leaching system depend on the chemical conditions in fluids around particle, mass transport and reaction at surface of each mineral grain. rate thus upon distribution grains, terms both size position, individual particles, as well evolution this distribution. Traditionally behaviour has been modelled using simplified relationships such shrinking core model. In paper method simulating resultant based directly 3D XMT images internal structure particles is presented. model includes through gangue matrix, dissolution subsequent grains particle. Different minerals associations will result different kinetics. One key inputs into A experimentally determining simulation results are compared to real they undergo measured time sequence column. It was found that these simulations able accurately predict overall trends, classes their distance surface. did not follow simple approximation, with actual spatial kinetics, all impacting For copper used work best fit experiments achieved intermediate value dimensionless group characterises relative importance diffusion indicating need be considered accurate modelling. This demonstrates provide structural kinetic data incorporating information scale simulator provides improved basis predicting performance.