An Arsenic Removal Technology and Its Application in Arsenic-Containing Copper

The usage of copper (Cu) ores containing low or no arsenic (As) has reduced, and Cu ores containing high levels of As have emerged as vital mineral resources for Cu extraction and processing. The quality of the Cu ores has decreased from 1.6% to approximately 1.0%. The proportion of As to Cu in 15% of Cu resources currently reaches 1:5. However, during the extraction and processing of Cu ores, As presents significant environmental harm. Hence, safely and effectively removing As is paramount in Cu smelting and processing, holding substantial importance in fostering environmentally sustainable practices within the Cu extraction and processing industry. This article consolidates the resource distribution of As-containing Cu (ACC) ores, comprehensively and systematically evaluates the present advancements in extracting techniques for these minerals, and identifies the challenges inherent in pyrometallurgical and wet processes for treating ACC deposits. Pyrometallurgy is a simple primary roasting technique and has widespread applicability in the treatment of various ACC minerals. Its disadvantages are the emission of exhaust gas and the high treatment costs associated with it. The wet arsenic removal method boasts advantages including minimal air pollution and a high resource recovery rate, significantly aiding in Cu concentrate recovery; its major drawback is the production of As-containing wastewater. The hydrometallurgical removal of As from ACC mines involves extracting As through leaching. Recently, biometallurgy has presented innovative solutions using specialized microorganisms to bioleach or bioabsorb As, but large-scale industrial applications still lack specific practical implementation. This review explores the underlying causes of the challenges encountered in processing ACC minerals. Additionally, it highlights pyrometallurgical roasting coupled with high-temperature filtration as a pivotal advancement in the extraction and processing of ACC ores.