This module covers the application of extractive metallurgy in the minerals industry. Using case studies, it reviews processes such as leaching (including bio-leaching), smelting and electrowinning. If you take this module, it is important that you have a basic knowledge of physical chemistry.

This module gives you a fundamental understanding of the background and application of extractive metallurgy, from mineral to metal, and its position within the process flowsheet. You will learn about important factors influencing selection of processes. Part of the module will be devoted to the critical evaluation and understanding of research literature.

If you take this module, you should have a reasonable understanding of physical chemistry, and would benefit from a basic grasp of mineralogy. This module is suitable for non-specialist students and those on interdisciplinary pathways.

This module aims to develop a systematic understanding and a critical awareness of current methods and techniques used for the recovery and separation of metals using metallurgical techniques.

This module aims to give you a fundamental understanding of the fundamental processes which underpin extractive metallurgy and presents current and potential applications. It also aims to help you comprehend the advantages and disadvantages in selecting metallurgical processes, including downstream and upstream treatments. Furthermore, by taking this module, you will learn the essential considerations when carrying out research in fundamental and applied minerals industry, and how to effectively assess and contribute to the current body of literature.

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of metallurgical techniques used for metal recovery and separation;

2 Reveal a critical understanding of the importance of mineralogy, metal oxidation state and energy requirements in selection of metallurgical processes;

3 Show expertise in laboratory evaluation of selected metallurgical processes;

4 Show an understanding of the fundamental microbial processes and interactions that underpin biohydrometallurgy;

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

5 Apply appropriate scientific principles to the analysis and solution of practical engineering problems;

6 Work safely in laboratory, workshop environments etc., and promote safe practice;

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:

7 Obtain and process information from a wide range of sources, which may be conflicting, analyse it critically and apply this information in engineering applications;

8 Work effectively within a group;

9 Communicate effectively and persuasively using the full range of currently available methods.

Extractive metallurgy can be sub-divided by the source of energy used to separate metals. These sources are either chemical, thermal or electrical in nature. This module provides an overview of these three areas from a historical and contemporary perspective. For all three, novel applications and current research as well as environmental considerations will be integrated into the specific topics outlined below.

Hydrometallurgical Topics:

1 Introduction to hydrometallurgy: a brief overview to put into context the role of hydrometallurgy in the extractive minerals industry. Including a brief discussion of the applications and techniques of hydrometallurgy and the chemical principles which underpin its use;

2 Leaching techniques: an overview of currently employed leaching techniques including In-situ, heap, agitation, and high pressure-temperature leaching. The design, operation and applications of these techniques will be discussed alongside the chemical and physical principles involved;

3 Solution purification: overview of techniques used for the purification of leach solutions including ion exchange (solvent extraction and resins) and precipitation. The basic principles and chemistry, solvents and materials, and design considerations will be discussed;

3 Introduction to biohydrometallurgy: the specialised case of biohydrometallurgy will be discussed including: definitions, its role within the extractives minerals industry. Also discussed will be the basic microbiology and biochemistry of biohydrometallurgy, and practical and design considerations;

4 Upstream process considerations: the effects of mineralogy and mineral processing options on hydrometallurgy will be discussed.

Pyrometallurgical Topics:

1 Introduction to pyrometallurgy: a brief overview to put into context the role of pyrometallurgy in the extractive minerals industry. Including a brief discussion of the applications and techniques of pyrometallurgy and the chemical and physical principles which underpin its use;

2 Pyrometallurgical techniques: an overview of currently employed techniques including roasting, smelting and refining. The design, operation and applications of these techniques will be discussed alongside the chemical and physical principles involved;

3 Upstream process considerations: the effects of mineralogy and mineral processing options on pyrometallurgy will be discussed, as well as typical preparatory techniques such as agglomeration, pelletising and briquetting.

Electrometallurgical Topics:

1 Introduction to electrometallurgy: a brief overview to put into context the role of electrometallurgy in the extractive minerals industry. Including a brief discussion of the applications and techniques of electrometallurgy and the chemical and physical principles which underpin its use;

2 Electrometallurgical techniques: an overview of currently employed techniques such as electro-winning, electro-refining and molten salt electrolysis. The design, operation and applications of these techniques will be discussed alongside the chemical and physical principles involved.

Case Studies:

The techniques and processes of extractive metallurgy will be illustrated through case studies of specific metals. Examples will include copper, nickel, aluminium, gold and iron.

Seminars:

Critical evaluation of selected extractive metallurgy articles, how to review science papers; scientific writing, how to write acceptable scientific articles.

Laboratory Exercises:

Laboratory experiments in selected metallurgical techniques will be undertaken..

Basic Reading:

ELE - http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

Web based and Electronic Resources:

http://app.knovel.com

wiki.biomine.skelleftea.se/

Reading list for this module: