TR201804416T1 - METHOD FOR OBTAINING ZINC FROM SOLUTION - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for obtaining zinc from an aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate zinc solution, the method further comprising the steps of: contacting the aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate zinc solution with an organic solution of a zinc extractor so that a section of zinc 10 is transferred from the aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate zinc solution produces a zinc-depleted aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate solution and a zinc-enriched organic solution of a zinc extractor; separating the zinc-depleted aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate solution of the zinc-enriched organic solution 15 of a zinc extractor; Contacting the zinc-enriched organic solution with an aqueous acidic solution produces a zinc-enriched aqueous acidic solution and a zinc-depleted organic solution of a zinc extractor; and obtaining zinc from the aqueous enriched acidic solution.

Description

DESCRIPTION METHOD FOR OBTAINING ZINC FROM SOLUTION TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention is based on a solution of ammonium carbonate with ammonia. relates to a method for obtaining zinc.

More specifically, the present invention provides a solution by solvent extraction. Extraction of zinc from ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution relates to a method for

INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNIQUE The following discussion of infrastructure technique can only be It is designed to facilitate an understanding of the invention.

The discussion is based on the priority of reference to any referenced material. that it is part of common general knowledge, as in, or It is not an acknowledgment or acknowledgment that it has happened. Zinc typically ore to form zinc oxide by roasting, leaching in zinc oxide sulfuric acid, by purifying the solution by adding zinc powder and then zinc from the sulfide mineral sphalerite by electrolysis is derived. Purification of the pregnant leaching solution is the same also through the use of a solvent extraction process can also be undertaken.

Zinc using an ammoniacal ammonium carbonate leachate While the processing of ores is known, the extraction of zinc The standard method for removing steam from solution It is a precipitate by blowing out ammonia and carbonate. This the precipitate is further processed to produce the zinc cathode. requires holding. The formation of the intermediate precipitate contributes significantly to its complexity and cost.

For the extraction of metals based on solvent leaching the broad concept is well known: target metals and impurities an aqueous solution containing an organic solvent containing an extractant exposed to phase, extractive, any impurities are large leaching of the metal into the organic phase while remaining substantially in the aqueous phase. allows, the two phases are separated, the organic phase then a clean is exposed to the aqueous phase and the target metal is phase passes. However, a goal of the broad principle cost-effective to a specific aqueous solution of the metal It is rarely simple to implement and the principles of solvent extraction are Its application to aqueous ammoniacal zinc solutions can be applied to various complicated by factors. aqueous ammonia The stability of zinc in solutions is pH dependent. At low pH Zinc is soluble. However, at medium pH, zinc is a precipitates as the hydroxide Zn(OH)2. Zinc at alkaline pH The hydroxide is regenerated as the zincate ion (ZnOý" or Zn(OH)ß"). soluble. Addition of ammonia, zinc hydroxide tetrammine pH at which it dissolves again due to the formation of the zinc ion Zn(NH3)42+ Extraction of zinc from precipitation acidic leach solutions presents very few barriers, inventors suggest an acidic organic Proton transfer from the extractor to the aqueous phase stability of remaining zinc due to simultaneous reduction They discovered that it had a practical effect on This effect by adding alkali only to the aqueous zinc phase. mitigation has obvious cost implications.

Exposure to aqueous zinc solution, eg sodium, hydroxide neutralization of organic acid extractor before disposal, While it will prevent the pH of the aqueous zinc phase to decrease, such one approach has a more complex flowchart and is noteworthy will have cost implications. Zinc organic of the acid separating from the extractant to regenerate the organic acid extractor. exposed to new aqueous zinc solution, although must be re-neutralized before being discharged.

Alternative approaches are now based on the pH of the aqueous solution. an organic extractant that has been shown to reduce the effect used ammonium salt. However, this is again pretreatment of the organic extractor a more complex flow diagram compared to a process that does not require and requires additional capital and operating costs.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, variations, any other integer or integers a specified integer or imply the inclusion of the group of integers will be understood.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present invention, ammonium with an aqueous ammonia A method for obtaining zinc from carbonate zinc solution. method is provided, the method includes the following steps: A solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contact with an organic solution of zinc extractor In this way, a section of zinc is hydrated with ammonia. ammonium carbonate is transferred from the zinc solution, a zinc depleted aqueous solution of ammonium carbonate with ammonia and a zinc extractant from a zinc enriched organic solution is produced; Zinc-enriched of a zinc extractor of its organic solution with aqueous ammonia depleted in zinc separation from the ammonium carbonate solution; A zinc-enriched organic solution contacting an aqueous acidic solution, a zinc an aqueous acidic solution enriched with a zinc organic depleted of a zinc of the extractor producing the solution; and From a zinc-enriched aqueous acid solution obtaining zinc.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, Species subjected to extraction between phases have both chemical and It will be understood that it also includes physical transfer.

The inventors of the present invention use ammonium carbonate with aqueous ammonia. the presence of carbonate in the zinc solution, organic zinc have an effect on zinc loading on the extractant they discovered that it was.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, solutions with ammonia, chemically from acid solutions is different. In an acid leach solution, for leaching low solubility of CO2 under required acid conditions As a result, the carbon dioxide level will be very low. This Therefore, the addition of carbonate to such a solution does not cause the evolution of CO2. results in. Bicarbonate/carbonate in ammoniacal solutions ions have a much higher solubility and this Therefore, C02 does not evolve.

In one form of the present invention, the following step; A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammonium with aqueous ammonia. baking soda transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced; more specifically, it includes: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this in the figure a cross section of zinc and carbonate with aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate is transferred from the zinc solution, a zinc depleted aqueous solution of ammonium carbonate with ammonia and a zinc extractant from a zinc and carbonate enriched organic solution is produced; and step ii) more specifically includes: A zinc extractor in terms of zinc and carbonate enriched organic solution and zinc carbonate depleted aqueous separation of the solution; and step iii) more specifically includes: Organic, enriched with zinc and carbonate of the solution is a zinc-enriched aqueous acid solution of a zinc extractor with a mixture of zinc and carbonate producing depleted organic solution and carbon dioxide contact with an acidic solution, and step iv) more specifically includes: Obtaining zinc from an aqueous acid solution enriched with zinc. to be made.

In a preferred form of the invention, the method also includes the following stage includes: To produce aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution with an ammonia solution of a zinc-containing ore filtration.

As preferred, the following step: To produce aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution with an ammonia solution of a zinc-containing ore filtration. more specifically it includes the following step: To produce aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution in the presence of ammonium carbonate of a zinc-containing ore filtration with ammonia solution.

Preferably, zinc-containing ore carbonate contains minerals. Also preferably zinc containing ore is an ore-containing zinc carbonate (smithsonite, Zncom or hydrozincite Zn5(C092(OH)6). With such ores, in the ore a fraction of the carbonate present, ammonium with aqueous ammonia carbonate initially to produce carbonate zinc solution leaching in a solution with ammonia, which may be free of ions It will dissolve simultaneously with zinc during

As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, a by adding carbon dioxide to the ammonia solution or by a carbon by the addition of ammonia to the dioxide solution or to an aqueous solution. an ammonium carbonate with the addition of ammonia and carbon dioxide solution is possible.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, one or more, such as the frying or calcination stages pretreatment or one or more concentrations includes, but is not limited to, the product of the will be understood.

In a preferred form of the present invention, the following step is: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammoniacal carbonate with aqueous ammonia transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced; more specifically, it includes: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this in the figure a cross section of zinc and carbonate with aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate is transferred from the zinc solution, a zinc carbonate depleted aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc extractant from a zinc and carbonate enriched organic solution is produced; The method also includes the following step: of the carbon dioxide of step (iii) into an aqueous solution. to be absorbed.

More preferably, during step (iii) Evolving carbon dioxide, an aqueous solution containing ammonia is absorbed into Also preferably, step (iii) carbon dioxide evolved during phase (i) hydrous ammonia depleted in zinc and carbonate produced absorbed into the ammonium carbonate solution.

In a preferred form of the present invention, the following step is: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammoniacal carbonate with aqueous ammonia transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced; more specifically, it includes: A zinc solution of ammonium carbonate with aqueous zinc ammonia contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this in the figure a cross section of zinc and carbonate with aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate is transferred from the zinc solution, a zinc carbonate depleted aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc extractant from a zinc and carbonate enriched organic solution is produced; and carbon dioxide evolved during step (iii), an aqueous is absorbed into the solution, the aqueous solution of carbon dioxide, ammonium with aqueous ammonia, feed for step (i) containing a zinc to produce carbonate zinc solution It is used in ammonia leaching of ore.

In some form of the method of the present invention, in a continuous manner carried out and a zinc extractor in step (i) at least one section of the organic solution next method In terms of zinc, a zinc extractor provided with steps provided by the exhausted organic solution.

In one form of the present invention, the method is more specifically ammonium carbonate with an aqueous ammonia containing free ammonia A method for obtaining zinc from zinc solution. method includes the following steps: a) Ammonium carbonate with aqueous ammonia containing free ammonia an organic form of a zinc extractor of a zinc solution contact with the solution, in this way the zinc and a fraction of ammonia containing free ammonia aqueous ammonia ammonium carbonate is transferred from the zinc solution, a zinc ammonia-depleted aqueous ammonia a solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc extractor. enriched in zinc and ammonia organic solution is produced; b) Zinc-enriched with a zinc extractor organic solution enriched in ammonia and depleted of zinc, depleted of ammonia separation of the solution; c) Enriched in zinc to reduce ammonia an organic solution enriched in ammonia contact with the ammonia scrub solution so that a Zinc-enriched in a zinc extractor ammonia-depleted organic solution and a producing the ammonia-enriched solution; and d) Zinc-enriched ammonia depleted organic solution, a zinc-rich acid solution and a zinc extractor for a zinc producing organic solution depleted of depleted ammonia contacting an acidic solution; and e) Obtaining zinc from zinc rich acid solution to be made.

In one form of the present invention, the method is more specifically an aqueous ammoniacal ammonium containing free ammonia. baking soda A method for obtaining zinc from zinc solution. includes the method, where ammonium scrubbing solution is preferred It has a pH of less than 2. more choices As indicated, a solution of less than 3 ammonium scrubbing solution It has pH. Still more preferred, ammonium The scrub solution has a pH of less than 4. still more More preferably more than 5 ammonium scrubbing solution has a lower pH. Still more preferred ammonium scrub solution to a pH of less than 6. has. Still more preferred, ammonium The scrub solution has a pH of less than 7.

In one form of the present invention, the method is more specifically ammonium carbonate with an aqueous ammonia containing free ammonia A method for obtaining zinc from zinc solution. includes the method, where ammonium scrubbing solution is preferred It has a pH in the range of 2-8. still preferred The ammonia scrub solution has a pH in the range of 3-8. has. Also preferred, ammonia scrubbing solution has a pH in the range of 4-8. Again prefer As indicated, the ammonia scrub solution should be mixed in a range of 5-8. It has pH. Also preferred, ammonia scrubbing solution has a pH in the range of 6-8. Again prefer As indicated, the ammonia scrub solution should be mixed in a range of 7-8. It has pH.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, for zinc organic enriched ammonia ammonia present in solution is weakly The retained ammonium is believed to be present as NHN ions.

Poorly held ammonium in the presence of protons ions, a stronger effect of the ammonia scrubbing solution displaced by its retained protons.

In one form of the present invention, the method is more specifically ammonium carbonate with an aqueous ammonia containing free ammonia A method for obtaining zinc from zinc solution. method includes the ammonia scrubbing solution during processing Aqueous acid enriched in zinc produced It is produced by diluting the solution. more choices ammonia scrubbing solution, consisting of from a dilute solution of a mineral acid selected from the group formed: sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid. Increasingly In a preferred form, dilute ammonia scrubbing solution is sulfuric acid.

In a preferred form of the present invention, the method is more specifically, an aqueous ammonia-containing free ammonia obtaining zinc from ammonium carbonate zinc solution. includes a method for scouring ammonia solution in water carbonic acid, which is a solution of carbon dioxide. More more preferably carbonic acid in solution concentration, continuous replenishment of carbon dioxide is continued with.

In one form of the present invention, the method is more specifically ammonium carbonate zinc with ammonia containing aqueous impurities a method for obtaining zinc from solution includes, the method includes the following steps: a) Ammonium carbonate with zinc ammonia containing aqueous impurities solution with an organic solution of a zinc extractor. contact with zinc and ammonia containing aqueous impurities. one of the impurities of ammonium carbonate zinc solution of zinc depleted in an impurity depleted aqueous solution of ammonium carbonate with ammonia and a enriched with an impurity of zinc extractor produces a zinc-enriched organic solution; b) in terms of impurity of a zinc extractor organic enriched zinc of its solution and depleted zinc in terms of impurities separation of the depleted aqueous solution; c) in terms of impurities to reduce impurities organic enriched zinc contact with an impurity scrubbing solution of the solution so that a zinc extractor is an impurity Zinc-enriched organic solution and enriched with an impurity producing the solution; d) depleted zinc in terms of impurities a zinc content of the enriched organic solution. enriched acid solution and a zinc extractor. depleted of an impurity depleted of zinc contact with an acidic solution producing organic solution to be carried; and e) Zinc-enriched aqueous acid solution obtaining zinc.

In one form of the present invention, the method of the present invention is more specifically, ammonium with ammonia containing an aqueous impurity for the extraction of zinc from carbonate zinc solution Contains a method, Prefer impurity scrubbing solution It has a pH of less than 0 as indicated. More preferably from impurity scrub solution 1 has a lower pH. Still more preferred10 impurity scrub solution to a pH of less than 2. has. Still more preferred, impurity The scrub solution has a pH of less than 3. still more most preferably impurity scrubbing solution It has a pH of less than 4. Still more choices impurity scrub solution less than 5 It has a pH. Again, as more preferred, The impurity scrub solution has a pH of less than 6.

Still more preferred, impurity scrubbing solution has a pH of less than 7.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, for the sake of impurity organic enriched zinc impurities present in solution are weakly believed to exist in retained forms. your protons in the presence of poorly retained impurity ions the place where the impurity scrubbing solution is more strongly enriched in terms of impurities with attached protons from organic solution enriched in zinc is changed. Accepted by those skilled in the art As will be noted, different impurities vary in strength. and some impurities are lower than others. will require a pH impurity scrubbing solution.

In one form of the present invention, the method of the present invention is more specifically, ammonium with ammonia containing an aqueous impurity for the extraction of zinc from carbonate zinc solution includes a method, the impurity scrub solution is preferred Contains zinc ions as is, impurity scrubbing The concentration of zinc in the solution is preferably 1 less than g/L. As more preferred, concentration of zinc in the impurity scrub solution 2 less than g/L. Also preferred, impurity The concentration of zinc in the scrubbing solution is less than 3 g/L is less. Also preferred is impurity scrubbing. the concentration of zinc in the solution. It is less than 4 g/L.

Also preferably, the impurity scrubbing solution the concentration of zinc is less than 5 g/L. Again prefer the zinc in the impurity scrub solution, as its concentration is less than 7 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. concentration is less than 10 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. its concentration is less than 15 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. concentration is less than 20 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. concentration is less than 30 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. concentration is less than 50 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. concentration is less than 60 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. concentration is less than 75 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. its concentration is less than 100 g/L. still preferred the zinc in the impurity scrub solution. its concentration is less than 150 g/L.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, for the sake of impurity organic enriched zinc impurities present in solution are weakly believed to exist in retained forms. Zinc ions impurity in its presence, which is poorly held. of ions replaced by more strongly retained zinc ions. Zinc enriched with impurities changed from enriched organic solution. in technique As will be recognized by the experts, different impurities will be held with varying strength and some impurities from others in the impurity scrubbing solution will require a higher zinc concentration.

As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the method of the present invention more specifically each of the following may include both: ammonium carbonate with an aqueous ammonia containing free ammonia A method for obtaining zinc from zinc solution. method; and ammonium carbonate zinc with ammonia containing an aqueous impurity a method for obtaining zinc from its solution, so the method of the present invention is both enriched in zinc to remove ammonia an organic solution enriched in ammonia contact with the ammonia scrub solution so that a Zinc-enriched in a zinc extractor organic solution depleted of ammonia and an ammonia producing the enriched solution; in terms of impurity to remove impurities organic enriched zinc contact with an impurity scrubbing solution of the solution so that a zinc extractor is an impurity enriched in depleted ammonia organic solution and in terms of an impurity production of the enriched solution.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, the method of the present invention more specifically each of the following may include both: ammonium carbonate with an aqueous ammonia containing free ammonia A method for obtaining zinc from zinc solution. method; and ammonium carbonate zinc with ammonia containing an aqueous impurity a method for obtaining zinc from its solution, the following stages: enriched in zinc to remove ammonia an organic solution enriched in ammonia contact with the ammonia scrub solution so that a Zinc-enriched in a zinc extractor organic solution depleted of ammonia and an ammonia producing the enriched solution; in terms of impurity to remove impurities organic enriched zinc contact with an impurity scrubbing solution of the solution so that a zinc extractor is an impurity enriched in depleted ammonia organic solution and in terms of an impurity production of the enriched solution. can be performed in either order.

Heat In one form of the present invention, the method of the present invention is highly carried out at temperature. As preferred, the following A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammonium with aqueous ammonia. baking soda transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced; carried out at high temperature.

In a preferred form, the method of the present invention is heated at 15-80°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 15-70°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 15-60°C.

Also preferred is the method of the present invention at 15-50°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 15-40°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 15-30°C.

Also preferred is the method of the present invention at 15-25°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention The method is carried out at ambient temperature. technical expert environment, as will be understood by a person with The performance of the method of the present invention at the temperature of the method additional processing costs by increasing the temperature It is advantageous that it does not occur.

In a preferred form, the method of the present invention is heated at 20-80°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 20-70°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 20-60°C.

Also preferred is the method of the present invention at 20-50°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 20-40°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 20-30°C.

In a preferred form, the method of the present invention is heated at 25-80°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 25-70°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 25-60°C.

Also preferred is the method of the present invention at 25-50°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 25-40°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 25-30°C.

In a preferred form, the method of the present invention is heated at 30-80°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 30-70°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 25-60°C.

Also preferred, the method of the present invention is heated at 30-60°C. is performed. Again, as preferred, the present invention method is carried out at 30-50°C. still preferred As such, the method of the present invention is carried out at 30-40°C. Zinc Concentration Preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 0.1 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia the concentration of zinc in the solution ]. less than g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia the concentration of zinc in the solution. It is less than 2 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 13 g/L.

Also preferably ammonium with ammonia. baking soda the concentration of zinc in the solution. It is less than 4 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia the concentration of zinc in the solution. It is less than 5 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than '7 g/L'.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 10 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 15 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 20 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 30 g/L.

Also preferably ammonium with ammonia. baking soda The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 50 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 60 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 75 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 100 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 150 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 250 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is less than 500 g/L.

In a preferred form of the present invention, ammonium with ammonia the concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 1_ g/L are in between. Preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the solution is 0.1 and 2 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 13 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 4 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 to 5 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and '7 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 10 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 20 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 30 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 50 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 60 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 75 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 100 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 150 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 200 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 250 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 350 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of zinc in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 500 g/L are in between.

Ammonia Concentration In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 0.1 g/L. is less. As preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 1 g/L. less. Again, as preferred ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 2 g/L. less. Again, as preferred ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 3 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 4 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 5 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 7 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 10 g/L. is less. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia Concentration of free ammonia in carbonate solution 15 less than g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia free ammonia in ammonium carbonate solution concentration is less than 20 g/L. still preferred free in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution the concentration of ammonia is less than 30 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as the concentration of free ammonia is less than 50 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 60 g/L. is less. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia Concentration of free ammonia in carbonate solution 75 less than g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia free ammonia in ammonium carbonate solution concentration is less than 100 g/L. still preferred free in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution the concentration of ammonia is less than 150 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as the concentration of free ammonia is less than 200 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is less than 250 g/L. is less. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the carbonate solution is 300 less than g/L.

In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is 0.1 and 1_ g/L are in between. Preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is 0.1 and 2 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and :3 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia free ammonia in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.1 and 4 g/L. still preferred free in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution The concentration of ammonia is between 0.1 and 5 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as the concentration of free ammonia is between 0.1 and 7 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is 0.1 and 10 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 15 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia free ammonia in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.1 and 20 g/L. still preferred free in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution The concentration of ammonia is between 0.1 and 30 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is 0.1 and 50 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 60 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia free ammonia in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.1 and 75 g/L. still preferred free in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution The concentration of ammonia is between 0.1 and 100 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the solution is 0.1 and 150 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of free ammonia in the carbonate solution is 0.1 and 200 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia free ammonia in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.1 and 250 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as the concentration of free ammonia is between 0.1 and 300 g/L.

Ammonium carbonate concentration In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is less than 0.1 g/L. is less. Preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is less than 1 g/L. is less. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia concentration of ammonium carbonate in carbonate solution 2 less than g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution concentration is less than 3 g/L. still preferred ammonium in ammonium carbonate solution with ammonia carbonate concentration is less than 4 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as ammonium carbonate concentration is less than 5 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is less than 7 g/L. is less. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the carbonate solution is 10 less than g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is less than 15 g/L. still preferred ammonium in ammonium carbonate solution with ammonia carbonate concentration is less than 20 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as ammonium carbonate concentration is less than 30 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is less than 50 g/L. is less. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia concentration of ammonium carbonate in carbonate solution 60 less than g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution concentration is less than 75 g/L. still preferred ammonium in ammonium carbonate solution with ammonia carbonate concentration is less than 100 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as ammonium carbonate concentration is less than 150 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is less than 200 g/L. is less. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia concentration of ammonium carbonate in carbonate solution 300 less than g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution concentration is less than 500 g/L.

In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is 0.5 and 1 g/L are in between. Preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is 0.5 and 2 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia concentration of ammonium carbonate in carbonate solution 0.5 and 13 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.5 and 4 g/L. still preferred ammonium in ammonium carbonate solution with ammonia carbonate concentration is between 0.5 and 5 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is 0.5 and 7 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia concentration of ammonium carbonate in carbonate solution 0.5 and 10 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.5 and 15 g/L. still preferred ammonium in ammonium carbonate solution with ammonia carbonate concentration is between 0.5 and 20 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is 0.5 and 30 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia concentration of ammonium carbonate in carbonate solution 0.5 and 50 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.5 and 60 g/L. still preferred ammonium in ammonium carbonate solution with ammonia carbonate concentration is between 0.5 and 75 g/L. Still preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is between 0.5 and 100. g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia concentration of ammonium carbonate in carbonate solution 0.5 and 150 g/L. Again, preferably with ammonia ammonium carbonate in ammonium carbonate solution its concentration is between 0.5 and 200 g/L. Again prefer in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution, as The concentration of ammonium carbonate is between 0.5 and 300 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The concentration of ammonium carbonate in the solution is between 0.5 and 500. g/L.

Baking soda In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonatin concentration in the solution is less than 0.1 g/L. less. Preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonate concentration in the solution is less than 1 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonate concentration in the solution is less than 2 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonate concentration in the solution is less than 3 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonate concentration in the solution is less than 4 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonate concentration in the solution is less than 5 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonate concentration in the solution is less than 7 g/L.

Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is less than 10 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is less than 15 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 20 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 30 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 50 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 60 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 75 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 100 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 150 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 200 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in the solution is greater than 250 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 350 g/L. less. Also preferred, ammonium carbonate with ammonia carbonate concentration in solution is greater than 500 g/L. In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonatin concentration in the solution is 0.5 and 1 g/L are in between. Preferably ammonium carbonate with ammonia The carbonatin concentration in the solution is 0.5 and 2 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 3 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 4 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 5 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 7 g/L are in between. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 10 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 15 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 20 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 30 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 50 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 60 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 75 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 100 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 150 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 200 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 250 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 350 g/L. Also preferred, ammonium with ammonia carbonate concentration in carbonate solution 0.5 and 500 g/L.

Aqueous solution CO3/Zn ratio In one form of the present invention, the following step: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammoniacal carbonate with aqueous ammonia transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced; More specifically, it includes the following stage: in aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution controlling the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, carbonate in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution The molar ratio of zinc to zinc is within the required range. covers any stage taken to ensure that will be understood. By a person skilled in the art As will be understood, ammonium carbonate zinc with aqueous ammonia control of the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the solution. methods, including, but not limited to, includes the following: a soluble substance such as those of sodium, potassium, or ammonium. passing gaseous carbon dioxide through the solution.

In one form of the present invention, carbonate in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is less than 0.1. As preferred, The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is greater than 0.25. less. Also preferably, carbonate in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is less than 0.50. still preferred the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution It is less than 0.75. Also preferably aqueous the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the solution is less than 0.9.

Also preferably, carbonate in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is less than 1.0. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is less than 1.1. is less. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is less than 1.25. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc molar ratio is less than 1.5. Again, as preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is greater than 2.0. In one form of the present invention, carbonate in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.05 and 0.1. is preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the aqueous solution is 0.05 and It is between 0.25. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.05 and 0.50. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc The molar ratio is between 0.05 and 0.75. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the aqueous solution is 0.05 and It is between 0.9. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.05 and 1.0. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.05 and 1.1. Again, preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the aqueous solution is 0.05 and It is between 1.1. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.05 and 1.25. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.05 and 1.5. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the aqueous solution is 0.05 and It is between 2.0.

In one form of the present invention, carbonate in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.1 and 1.0. is preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.25 and It is between 1.0. More preferably, aqueous molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution 0.5 and 1.0 are in between. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.75 and 1.0. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.9 and 1.0. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.95 and It is between 1.0.

In one form of the present invention, carbonate in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.1 and 1.1. is preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.25 and It is between 1.1. More preferably, aqueous molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution 0.5 and 1.1 are in between. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.75 and 1.1. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.9 and 1.1. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.95 and It is between 1.1.

In one form of the present invention, carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc. the molar ratio is between 0.1 and 1.5. is preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.25 and It is between 1.5. More preferably, aqueous molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution 0.5 and 1.5 are in between. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.75 and 1.5. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.9 and 1.5. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.95 and It is between 1.5.

In one form of the present invention, carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc. the molar ratio is between 0.1 and 2.0. Choice. has been The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.25 and It is between 2.0. More preferably, aqueous molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution 0.5 and 2.0 are in between. Also preferably, in aqueous solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.75 and 2.0. Still preferably carbonate in aqueous solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.9 and 2.0. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.95 and It is between 2.0.

The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an aqueous solution any method available to specialists can be determined using For example, zinc in the aqueous phase and carbonate content, eg an atomic absorption taking a whole aliquot of the solution using a spectrometer and can be determined by measuring the zinc concentration. Baking soda, by precipitation using barium ions or by a pH It can be measured gravimetrically by titration.

Aqueous solution NHé/Zn ratio Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 0.1. Preferably aqueous the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 0.25.

Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 0.50. Preferably aqueous The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 0.75.

Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 0.9. Preferably aqueous the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 1.0.

Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 1.1. Preferably aqueous The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 1.25.

Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 1.5. Preferably aqueous the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in solution is less than 2.0.

Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 3.0. Preferably aqueous the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 5.0.

Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 10.0. Preferably aqueous the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 20.0.

Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 50.0. Preferably aqueous The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is greater than 100.0. Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution is converted to zinc. the molar ratio is between 0.05 and 0.1. As preferred, The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an aqueous solution is between 0.05 and 0.25. are in between. Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.05 and 0.50. is preferred The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.05 and It is between 0.75. Preferably in aqueous solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is between 0.05 and 0.9. Choice The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an aqueous solution It is between 0.05 and 1.0. Preferably aqueous the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in solution is 0.05 and 1.1 are in between. Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.05 and 1.25. is preferred The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.05 and It is between 1.5. Preferably in aqueous solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is between 0.05 and 2.0. Choice The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an aqueous solution It is between 0.05 and 3.0. Preferably aqueous the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in solution is 0.05 and 5.0 are in between. Preferably, ammonia in aqueous solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.05 and 10.0. is preferred The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an aqueous solution is 0.05 and between .0. Preferably in aqueous solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is between 0.05 and 50.0. Choice The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an aqueous solution It is between 0.05 and 100.0. Zinc Extractor type In one form of the invention, the zinc extractor is from the following group: selected: liquid organophosphorus extractor, liquid oxime extractor, carboxylic acid extractant and combinations thereof.

In a preferred form of the invention, a carboxylic acid when extractant is present, the carboxylic acid extractor Its molecular formula contains 6-14 carbon atoms. Find your choice molecular weight of the carboxylic acid extractant Its formula contains 8-12 carbon atoms.

In a preferred form of the invention, the oxime extractant is aldoxime, a ketoxime, or a combination of both selected from the mix.

In a preferred form of the invention, an organophosphorus when extractant is present, organophosphorus Extractor phosphoric, It is a derivative of phosphonic, phosphinic or dithiophosphinic acid.

In a highly preferred form of the invention, an organophosphorus when extractor is present, organophosphorus extractor Bis(2- ethylhexyl) hydrogen phosphate (also Bis(2-ethylhexyl) Also known as phosphoric acid, Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate, Bis(2-ethylhexyl) hydrophosphoric acid, BEHPA, BEHP, BEHHPA,10 BEHHP, Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid, D2EHPA, D2EHPA, Stoichiometry of zinc sulfate / organic extractor systems and its behavior is well known. For example, a zinc sulfate - In the D2EHPA system, the zinc ion, in other words, is usually ZnD2EHPA2, abbreviated as ZnR2, per two DZEHPA molecules are required. The general reaction that occurs that the species in the organic phase are italicized and the species in the aqueous phase are plain. It is summarized with (1), where it is shown that it is of the type.

Zn2+ + ZRH = ZnR2 + ZHJr (1) The same stoichiometry, D2EHPA (Kolarik and Grimm, Z.Kolarik and Solvent Extraction, 2006 and references herein) universal for the extraction of other divalent metals It is considered. Without wanting to be limited by theory, however, zinc extracted from ammonium carbonate with ammonia species significantly greater than that extracted from other aqueous media. It has been discovered by the inventors that it is different. other juicy species extracted from media per divalent metal ion has two organic extractant molecules, while ammonium with ammonia Hydrogen carbonate of species extracted from carbonate solution with another monovalent anion in the system, such as (bicarbonate) with only one molecule of extractant with charge balanced it is understood that it is extracted.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, inventors If RZnHCO3 is present, only one on the complex distinctly from R-Zn-R as it is an organic chain. believes it will be shorter. Getting this mixed up R-Zn-R less likely than complex and therefore to a substantially higher viscosity than the organic solution did not have. This is practical, such as increased separation time. a higher level of organic extractor without difficulties. Allows the use of concentration.

In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with aqueous ammonia The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in zinc solution is four or it should be more. Without wishing to be bound by theory, juicy ammonia in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution where the molar ratio to zinc is four or more, zinc in aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution. will exist as the tetraamine complex ion Zn(NH3)ß+ It is understood by the Applicant.

In one form of the present invention, ammonium carbonate with aqueous ammonia the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the zinc solution, one or it should be more. Without wishing to be bound by theory, juicy carbonate in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution where the molar ratio to zinc is one or more, present in the organic solution following the following step zinc species are believed to be in the form of ZnRHCO3, where R is extractive: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammonium with aqueous ammonia. baking soda transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced.

Preferably zinc present in organic solution at least 10% of the species are in the form of ZnRHC03. More zinc present in organic solution, preferably at least 20% of the species are in the form of ZnRHCOg. Again prefer of the zinc species present in the organic solution, as indicated at least 30% is in the form of ZnRHC03. still preferred Most of the zinc species present in organic solution, such as at least 40% is in the form of ZnRHCO3. Again, as preferred at least of the zinc species present in the organic solution at least 60% of the zinc species present in solution ZnRHCO3 is in the form. Also preferably in organic solution at least 70% of the available zinc species ZnRHCO3 is in the form. Also preferably in organic solution at least 80% of the zinc species available ZnRHCO3 is in the form. Also preferably in organic solution at least 90% of the zinc species present are ZnRHCO3 is in the form. Also preferably in organic solution at least 95% of the available zinc species ZnRHC03 is in the form. Also preferably in organic solution at least 99% of the zinc species available are ZnRHCO3 is in the form. Also preferably in organic solution 100 % of the available zinc species are in the form of ZnRHCO3.

In a highly preferred form of the present invention, aqueous ammonia in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution the molar ratio of zinc to carbonate is approximately 4:1:1.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, zinc extraction It is believed that the reaction can be summarized as follows, Species in organic solution are written in italics. Extractor Concentration In one form of the present invention, zinc in organic solution The concentration of the extractant is less than 0.1% by volume.

Preferably, the zinc extractant in organic solution its concentration is less than 1% by volume. still preferred concentration of zinc extractor in organic solution. less than Z% by volume. Organic, also preferred The concentration of zinc extractor in the solution is less than 3% by volume. is less. Also preferably, in organic solution the concentration of zinc extractor is less than 4% by volume.

Also preferably, zinc in organic solution extractor. concentration. less than 5% by volume. Still preferably the zinc extractor in organic solution its concentration is less than 7% by volume. still preferred concentration of zinc extractor in organic solution. less than 10% by volume. Again, as preferred concentration of zinc extractor in organic solution by volume The concentration of zinc extractor in the solution is less than 20% by volume. is less. Also preferably, in organic solution the concentration of zinc extractor is less than 30% by volume.

Also preferably, zinc in organic solution The concentration of the extractant is less than 40% by volume. Still preferably the zinc extractor in organic solution concentration is less than 50% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated concentration is less than 60% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated concentration is less than 70% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is less than 80% by volume.

In one form of the present invention, zinc in organic solution The concentration of the extractant is between 0.5 and 1% by volume.

Preferably, the zinc extractant in organic solution its concentration is between 0.5 and 2% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 3% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 4% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 5% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 7% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 10% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 15% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 20% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 30% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 40% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 50% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 60% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 70% by volume. Again prefer of the zinc extractor in organic solution, as indicated its concentration is between 0.5 and 80% by volume.

phase shifter In one form of the invention, the method also includes the following step during: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammonium with aqueous ammonia. baking soda transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced; to prevent the formation of more than two immiscible phases. before the following step: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this in the figure zinc. a cross section of ammonium with aqueous ammonia. baking soda transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced; includes the following stage: a phase to an organic solution of a zinc extractor adding the modifier.

In a preferred form of the invention, the method also includes a zinc of a phase changer to the organic solution of the extractor. phase changer, where it involves the addition of concentration is less than 0.1% by volume. is preferred The concentration of the phase changer is less than 1% by volume. less. Also preferred, the phase changer its concentration is less than 2.5% by volume. Again prefer As indicated, the concentration of the phase changer is by volume. the concentration of the modifier is less than 7.5% by volume.

In a most preferred form of the present invention, phase the concentration of the modifier is less than 10% by volume. Still preferably the concentration of the phase changer less than 15% by volume. Again, as preferred, phase the concentration of the modifier is less than 20% by volume.

In a preferred form of the invention, the method also includes a zinc of a phase changer to the organic solution of the extractor. phase changer, where it involves the addition of its concentration is 0.11-50% by volume. still preferred For example, the concentration of the phase changer is 1-50% by volume.

Also preferred is the concentration of the phase changer. 2.5-50% by volume. Again, as preferred, phase the concentration of the modifier is 5-50% by volume. Again prefer As indicated, the concentration of the phase changer is by volume. its concentration is 10%-SO by volume. Again, as preferred The concentration of the phase changer is 15-50% by volume.

In a preferred form of the invention, the method also includes a zinc of a phase changer to the organic solution of the extractor. In the case where it involves the addition step, a phase changer organic alcohol. Organic alcohol, preferably selected from the following group: 1-decanol, 2-ethyl hexanol, and p- nonyl phenol. In a highly preferred form of the invention, phase the modifier is isodecanol (1-decanol, decan-1-ol, CAS 112-30- 1, C10H220).

In a preferred form of the invention, the method also includes a zinc of a phase changer to the organic solution of the extractor. In the case where it involves the addition step, a phase changer trioctyl phosphine oxide (TOPO).

In a preferred form of the invention, the method also includes a zinc of a phase changer to the organic solution of the extractor. phase changer tributyl phosphate (TBP, CAS 126-73-8, CuH2ühP).

Diluent preferences In a preferred form of the present invention, a zinc organic solution of the extractant, a zinc extractor and a Contains diluent. Preferably, diluent >50% is aliphatic. Also preferred, diluent >6O% is aliphatic. Also preferred, diluent %>70 is aliphatic. Also preferred, diluent >8O% is aliphatic. Again, preferably, diluent %>9O is aliphatic. Again, preferably >95% diluent is aliphatic.

In a preferred form of the invention, the diluent is 50-100%. is aliphatic. Also preferably 60-100% diluent is aliphatic. Also preferably 70-100% diluent is aliphatic. Also preferably 80-100% diluent is aliphatic. Also preferably 90-100% diluent is aliphatic. Also preferred, diluent 95-100% is aliphatic.

In a highly preferred form of the present invention, the diluent is it is kerosene.

Organic Solution CO3/Zn ratio In one form of the present invention, carbonate in organic solution its molar ratio to zinc is less than 0.1. As preferred, The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in organic solution is less than 0.25. is less. Also preferably, in organic solution the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is less than 0.50. Still preferably carbonate in organic solution to zinc molar ratio is less than 0.75. Again, as preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in organic solution is from 0.9. is less. Also preferably, in organic solution the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is less than 1.0. Again prefer Molar to zinc carbonate in organic solution ratio is less than 1.1. Organic, also preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution is greater than 1.25 less. Also preferably, in organic solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is less than 1.5. Again prefer Molar to zinc carbonate in organic solution rate is less than 2.0. Organic, also preferred the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution is less than 3.0.

Also preferably, carbonate in organic solution its molar ratio to zinc is less than 5.0. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in organic solution It is less than .0. Organic, also preferred the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in the solution is greater than 20.0 In one form of the present invention, carbonate in organic solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.05 and 0.1. is preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an organic solution is 0.05. and between 0.25. Organic, also preferred molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution 0.05 and 0.50 are in between. Also preferably, in organic solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.05 and 0.75. Still preferably carbonate in organic solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.05 and 0.9. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an organic solution is 0.05. between 1.0 and 1.0. Organic, also preferred the molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution is 0.05 and 1.1 are in between. Also preferably, in organic solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.05 and 1.25. Still preferably carbonate in organic solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.05 and 1.5. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an organic solution is 0.05. and 2.0. Organic, also preferred molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution 0.05 and 3.0 are in between. Also preferably, in organic solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.05 and 5.0. Still preferably carbonate in organic solution to zinc the molar ratio is between 0.05 and 10.0. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in an organic solution is 0.05. and between 20.0.

Also preferably, carbonate in organic solution its molar ratio to zinc is between 0.05 and 2.0. Again prefer Molar to zinc carbonate in organic solution ratio is between 0.25 and 2.0. Again, as preferred molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in organic solution 0.5 and 2.0 are in between. Also preferably, in organic solution The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc is between 0.5 and 1.5. Still preferably carbonate in organic solution to zinc The molar ratio is between 0.75 and 1.25. still preferred The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in organic solution is 0.9. between 1.1 and 1.1. Organic, also preferred molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in solution 0.95 and 1.05 are in between.

The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in organic solution any method available to specialists can be determined using For example, zinc in the organic phase and carbonate content, taking a whole aliquot of the organic solution and any evolved gaseous carbon dioxide is withdrawn. with a volume greater than 150 g/L sulfuric acid for sure can be determined by thorough mixing. Later phases should be allowed to separate and using standard methods an analysis of the aqueous phase for zinc and carbonate ions realizable. All zinc and carbonate with fresh 150 g/L sulfuric acid to ensure more contact may be required. This method uses organic zinc and directly gives the carbonate concentrations and these data to determine the molar ratio of Zn:CO3 in organic can be used.

Organic solution NHg/Zn ratio Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 0.001. As preferred, The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in organic solution is less than 0.005. is less. Preferably in organic solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is less than 0.01. Choice Molars of ammonia to zinc in organic solution ratio is less than 0.05. Organic, as preferred The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 0.1.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 0.25. As preferred, The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in organic solution is less than 0.50. is less. Preferably in organic solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is less than 0.75. Choice Molars of ammonia to zinc in organic solution ratio is less than 0.9. Organic, as preferred the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 1.0.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. the molar ratio is less than 1.1. Organic, as preferred The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 1.25.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 1.5. Organic, as preferred the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in solution is less than 2.0.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 3.0. Organic, as preferred the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the solution is less than 5.0.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. molar ratio is less than 10.0. As preferred, The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in organic solution is less than 20.0. is less.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. the molar ratio is between 0.001 and 0.1. As preferred, The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the organic solution is 0.001 and It is between 0.25. Preferably in organic solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is between 0.001 and 0.50.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. the molar ratio is between 0.001 and 0.75. As preferred, The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in an organic solution is between 0.001 and 0.9 are in between. Preferably in organic solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is between 0.001 and 1.0. Choice Molars of ammonia to zinc in organic solution ratio is between 0.001 and 1.1. Organic, as preferred molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in solution 0.001 and 1.25 are in between. Preferably in organic solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is between 0.001 and 1.5.

Preferably, the ammonia in the organic solution is converted to zinc. the molar ratio is between 0.001 and 2.0. As preferred, molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in organic solution 0.001 and 3.0 are in between. Preferably in organic solution The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc is between 0.001 and 5.0. Choice Molars of ammonia to zinc in organic solution ratio is between 0.001 and 10.0. As preferred, The molar ratio of ammonia to zinc in the organic solution is 0.001 and between .0.

Organic solution Zn/R ratio In one form of the present invention, zinc in organic solution its molar ratio to zinc extractor is less than 0.1. Choice As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 0.25. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 0.50. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 0.75. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 0.9. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 1.0. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 1.1. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 1.25. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 1.5. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 2.0. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 3.0. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution the molar ratio to extractor is less than 5.0. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution the molar ratio to extractor is less than 10.0. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is less than 20.0.

In one form of the present invention, zinc in organic solution the molar ratio to zinc extractor is between 0.05 and 0.1. Choice As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 0.25. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 0.50. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 0.75. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 0.9. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 1.0. still prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 1.1. still prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 1.25. still prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 1.5. still prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.05 and 2.0.

In one form of the present invention, zinc in organic solution its molar ratio to zinc extractor is between 0.1 and 1.1. Choice As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.25 and 1.1. Again prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.5 and 1.1. still prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.75 and 1.1. still prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.9 and 1.1. still prefer As stated above, the zinc content of the organic solution The molar ratio to extractor is between 0.95 and 1.05.

In a highly preferred form of the present invention, aqueous ammonia in ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution the molar ratio of zinc to carbonate is approximately 4:1:1. of zinc in aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution. its concentration is preferably 20-25 g/L; ammonia in aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution its concentration is preferably 21-26 g/L; in aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution the carbonate concentration is preferably 18-23 g/L; concentration of organic solution of a zinc extractor 30-40% by volume; the concentration of the phase changer is 5-10% by volume; the diluent used is more than 98% aliphatic; molar ratio of zinc extractor to zinc in organic solution 0.95 to 1.05; and The molar ratio of carbonate to zinc in organic solution is 0.95 to is 1.05, present in the organic solution following the following step the zinc species are in the form of ZnRHCO3, where R is the extractant: A zinc solution of aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc contacting an organic solution of the extractant, this A cross section of zinc in the figure is ammoniacal carbonate with aqueous ammonia transferred from the zinc solution, depleted in a zinc aqueous ammoniacal solution of ammonium carbonate and a zinc a zinc-enriched organic solution is produced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Other features of the present invention are that it is not limiting. more detailed in the following description of several explained as. This description is merely illustrative of the present invention. for its purposes. Find as suggested above broad summary, an annotation on its discovery or explanation should not be construed as a restriction. Explanation to the attached drawings will be done by reference, here: Figure 1 shows a zinc carbonate ore with ammonia an aqueous solution of ammoniacal zinc produced by leaching in the context of a flow representing the method of editing is the diagram; Figure 2 shows Zn from the high carbonate solution of Example 1 and A graphical representation of the charging isotherms for CO3 ions. is representative; Figure 3, Zn from the low carbonate solution of Example 2 and A graphical representation of the charging isotherms for CO3 ions. is representative; Figure 4 shows that CO3:Zn >= 1 in the trials of Example 3 to 10, 40 and 60 vol.% DZEHPA from solutions (from the bottom A graphical representation of the extraction isotherms for is representative; Figure 5, Zn/DZEHPA for the isotherms of Figure 4 is a graphical representation of rates; and Figure 6, In the trials of Example 4 14 after 2 and 3 contacts zinc extraction as a function of equilibrium pH. a graphical representation.

EXPLANATION OF REGULATIONS A zinc ore (20) in terms of impurities and a zinc ammonium carbonate with an aqueous zinc ammonia containing a depleted solid with ammonia to produce a slurry (27) containing solution. filtered (10) in ammonium carbonate solution (62), slurry, zinc containing a discarded solid waste (41) and an impurity to produce ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution (30). exposed to liquid separation (II). containing aqueous impurities The ammonium carbonate solution with zinc ammonia (30) is then the solvent is introduced into the extraction loading stage (12), where the aqueous ammonium carbonate solution with zinc ammonia containing impurities (30), D2EHPA dissolved in an aliphatic (43). in the form of a contacted with an organic solution of zinc extractor. Zinc, some impurities and some ammonia are transferred to the organic phase. is transferred so that a zinc which is subsequently separated depleted in impurity depleted ammonia exhausted aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution (60) and a zinc extractor (33) from a zinc enriched impurity enriched organic solution enriched in ammonia is produced. depleted in zinc impurity depleted ammonia depleted ammonium with aqueous ammonia carbonate solution (60) is substantially a carbonic acid developed during the zinc separation (15) forming the solution (32) a small ax used to absorb carbon dioxide (59). is recycled to leaching by volume (31).

In terms of impurity of a zinc extractor (22) enriched ammonia-enriched zinc enriched organic solution, an ammonia proceeds to the scrub extraction (13). Ammonia scrubbing at stage (13), a zinc extractor (33) enriched in ammonia organic enriched zinc contact with an acidic solution of carbonic acid (32) so that it is enriched with an impurity enriched in zinc, depleted in ammonia organic solution (47) and back to the leaching stage (10) a solution of ammonium carbonate with ammonia converted (62) Rafinate from the SX loading phase (12) to form ammonium carbonate with an ammonia combined with (60) solution (61) is produced. in terms of impurity enriched in ammonia depleted in zinc The enriched organic solution (47) is then mixed with zinc and extractable impurities (58) and a zinc extractor (49) depleted of an impurity depleted of ammonia containing an organic solution enriched in zinc. scrubbing an impurity forming an acidic aqueous solution with an acidic aqueous solution containing zinc (56) at stage (14) is contacted. Impurity of a zinc extractor (49) depleted in ammonia depleted in zinc enriched organic solution, a zinc The acidic aqueous phase (52) enriched in a zinc ammonia depleted by an impurity of the extractant 43 organic depleted zinc depleted organic vigorously producing solution and carbon dioxide (59). a zinc separation in which it is contacted with an acidic solution (51). progresses to phase (15). Enriched in Zinc acid aqueous phase (52), zinc from which zinc cathodes (53) are produced proceeds to its electrolysis (16). of a zinc extractor (43) depleted of impurities depleted of ammonia SX loading of organic solution depleted in zinc is recycled to phase (12). Carbon dioxide (59) is an aqueous is absorbed into solution (31) and the resulting solution (32) is used in ammonia scrub (13).

An ore of zinc silicate, ~25 g/L free ammonia and ~8 g/L ammonium carbonate with an ammonia composed of ammonium carbonate filtered with the solution. After 24 hours of filtration, the solution was filtered off, the zinc grade of this solution It was 4.67 g/L. aliphatic yielding a solution containing 0.303M DZEHPA 100 mL of D2EHPA diluted to 1.00 L with kerosene (Recosol V80) an organic phase was obtained.

A small volume of the aqueous zinc solution for several minutes rinsed with a whole aliquot of the organic D2EHPA solution.

The phases were allowed to separate and the aqueous phase evacuated and using standard methods zinc and analyzed for carbonate ions. Organic mass of zinc and carbonate ions transferred to the organic phase feed solution (4.67 g/L) and solution after contact with the phase calculated as the difference between

A fresh aliquot of the aqueous zinc solution is then was contacted with the same aliquot of DZEHPA solution and cycle until a small amount of zinc extraction remains from the aqueous solution. until repeated.

For zinc and carbonate ions resulting from this study, data points and optimal Langmuir isotherms are shown in Figure 2. is displayed. Triangles with carbonate data and isotherms, respectively and dashed lines.

Langmuir isotherm, maximum zinc in organic solution loading 19.04 g/L, (0.291 M) and the maximum indicates that the carbonate loading is 17.53 g/L (0.292 M).

Thus, the molar ratio of CO3:Zn in the organic phase is O.292/O.291 = The leaching carried out in Example 1, ~1 g/L ammonium carbonate The only difference between these two studies was repeated using is the difference. Solution grade for 4.60 g/L zinc, from Example 1 very close to the incoming, obviously, in the leaching solution level of carbonate ions, degree of leaching from this ore has little effect on it. Extraction process and analyzes also to give the isotherms shown in Figure 3. is repeated. Isotherms for zinc and carbonate ions are shown in Figure 2. is displayed. Maximum loadings of zinc and carbonate ions leads to molar ratio. Simple comparison with Example 1_, in the aqueous feed solution the molar ratio of carbonate ions to zinc ions is 1.18 Reducing it to 0.15 resulted in the maximum extraction of zinc by 19.04 g/L to 10.20 g/L, which is a huge is a decrease. Clearly, during the extraction, the carbonate ions its presence has a very significant effect on zinc leaching. has.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, in aqueous solution (1.0 Recommended ZnRHC03 complex of more than 0.156 *100) zinc explicitly to allow its transfer to the organic phase. is insufficient. The remaining ~93.6% of zinc is the well-known ZnRz will be extracted as a complex. On this basis, D2EHPA to Zn It can be calculated as 1.936. This is 1.94 derived from the isotherm. very close to the experimental value.

A solution of ammonium carbonate with ammonia containing zinc, 24 a dolomite ((Ca,Mg)COQ in an ammonia solution for one hour It was made by leaching smithsonite (ZnCOg) ore containing it.

After this time, the solution is ready to eliminate solids. is filtered. The resulting solution is 19 g/L zinc, 30 g/L total ammonia (i.e. ammonia + ammonium) and ~29 g contains carbonate ions. This is a 1.04 carbonate gives the zinc molar ratio.

Two vol.% TBP plus 40% or 60% vol. D2EHPA organic solution prepared, the balance is kerosene. juicy and organic solutions together in different volume ratios agitated, allowed to settle, and the aqueous solution to zinc. has been analyzed accordingly. Zinc in organic solution concentration was calculated in terms of difference.

Figure 4, in the high carbonate solution from Example 1. 40% and 60% by volume with isotherm for 10% by volume Shows the extraction isotherms for DZEHPA. Experimental data is represented as points, lines are shows a calculated Langmuir isotherm.

of the species present in the organic solution at the saturation point. from the maximum of the Langmuir isotherms can be determined. Molar ratio of zinc to D2EHPA in the organic phase computable. 40% by volume DZEHPA is ~1.21M, 83 g/L Zn It is 1.27M, so the molar ratio of Zn/DZEHPA is 1.05. a similar In the figure, in the 60% by volume DZEHPA study, the ratio was 1.02. This Zinc extracted from ammonium carbonate with ammonia species from ZnR2 species extracted from other aqueous media. It turns out that it can be summarized as ZnR, which is significantly different. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, The Langmuir isotherm also allows for any loading of organic matter. to determine the Zn/DZEHPA ratio for the level of can also be used. These data show that the three isotherms from Figure 3 shown in Figure 5 for all.

for the individual data points shown in Figure 4. The Zn/DZEHPA ratio ranges from 0.09 to 1.05. Before In this case, every eleven D2EHPA present in organic matter only one of its molecules binds to a zinc ion, the remaining ten, as they are extracted in later stages, It is suitable to be used in complex with zinc ions. This, The amount of zinc in the organic phase increased with the leaching solution. It becomes apparent with increasing Zn/DZEHPA ratio as the number of contacts increases. is brought.

Experts in the art, DZEHPA's most economical and efficient the use of zinc, the maximum number of DZEHPA molecules In the case when it is associated with ions, in other words a percentage of the maximum possible zinc concentration The concentration of zinc in organic matter is close to 100%. D2EHPA saturation with the highest Zn/DZEHPA ratio will accept that the point will be at the upper end. Zn/DZEHPA rate of it will be possible to work but economically weak.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, the D2EHPA maximum when not at saturation point, zinc ions in the organic phase that DZEHPA molecules not associated with It is open. Under such conditions, the Zn/DZEHPA ratio is always <1 and free DZEHPA present at the lowest saturation points amount will be the highest and the Zn/DZEHPA ratio will be the lowest.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, ammonium with ammonia Species extracted from carbonate solutions also believed to contain hydrogen carbonate. The reason is twofold.

First, the value of zinc does not change during extraction and both to balance the load in both aqueous and organic solutions. A valence anion is required. In aqueous solution, any The only anion present at a useful concentration is carbonate.

Second, carbonate-weighted between pH 6.2 and 10.2 Available as hydrogen carbonate (bicarbonate), HCOf.

Thus, after extraction from ammonium carbonate with ammonia, RZnHC03 of the zinc-bearing species present in the organic solution it will be seen.

By those skilled in the art, aqueous acid sulfate D2EHPA used to extract zinc from solutions concentration is around 40% by volume. It is well known that it has an upper practical limit. of this level above, the viscosity of the organic solution, an industrial It is quite high for its use in the process. This Even at high concentration, the solvent extraction circuit is typically at elevated temperature to reduce viscosity problems is run. Increased viscosity, ZnR2 complexes It is linked to the formation of polymers (Z.Kolarik and R.Grimm, A much longer chain with a structural formula of R-Zn-R a square surrounding the zinc, effectively forming connects to opposite sides of the plane. longer chains it gets mixed easily, this Viscosity very high for industrial use. raises the point.

A recent publication (Phys. Probl. Miner. Proc. 50(l), 2014, Examines the extraction of zinc from the solution. 36% by volume “Due to high viscosity” of using D2EHPA use was insufficient and as a result “the next that the concentration in the experiments was limited to 18% (by volume)” states. Existing system, 60% by volume as extractant Visible viscosity problems even when using D2EHPA it doesn't show. Presence of putative RZnHCOg complex only a single organic chain on the complex will be significantly shorter than R-Zn-R.

It is less likely to polymerize than the R-Zn-R complex likely and therefore from the initial organic solution. it does not have a substantially higher viscosity.

A large volume of zinc-containing aqueous solution, ~16.7 g/L 300 L ~35 g/L free ammonia to give zinc grade by leaching 24 kg of 35% Zn ore in its solution has been prepared. The ore can also leak lead and It also contained cadmium. of 10.9l. at an initial pH with fresh aqueous, fresh organic matter in a volume ratio of 1:1 (40% vol. DZEHPA + 10% vol. TBP in kerosene) contact precipitated, organic matter removed, aqueous sampled and replaced with fresh organic matter. This was repeated three times. Figure 4, after 1, 2 and 3 contacts Zinc leaching as a function of equilibrium pH shows.

Despite the high initial free ammonia in PLS, the pH to a level where the leaching of metals is high It is clear that three contacts are enough to download it.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein variations other than those described as will recognize that it is sensitive to modifications. Meet, includes all such variations and modifications.

The invention is also referred to or specified in the specification. steps, properties, formulations and compounds all, separately or in aggregate, and in any combination or all combinations or steps or features includes any two or more. quotes 13 153 4 16 61 NH3 47 impurity Zn 51 60 "mm" -::play "W“ 52 loading pH 1 zinc f som-Z“ cathode quotes 4? [Zn] or [603] in organic matter, gIL [Zn] or [603] in aqueous medium, gIL [Zn] or [603] in organic matter, gIL [Zn] or [603] in aqueous medium, gIL gIL Zn in organic matter gIL Zn in aqueous matter Sirma EN _xououuaE ::590

Claims (24)

1. CLAIMS PCTM tlziiioiimiszr. 1. A method tor recovering zinc lrom an aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution. the method oomprising the steps ot: Contacting the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution with an organic solution ot a zinc extractant, such that a portion of the zinc is transterred from the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution. producing a zinc-depleted aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution and a zinc- enriched organic solution ol 3 zinc extractant; Separating the zinc-enriched organic solution of a zinc extractant from the zinc-depleted aqueous ammoniacgl ammonium carbonate solution. &33` Contacting the zinc-enriched orgînîe' solution with an aqueous acidic solution. producing a zinc eniiéhed aqueous acidic solution and a zinc-depleted organic soluggh ola zinc extractant; and Recovering zinc tronbmçef zinc- -enriched aqueous acid solution.
2. 2 A method according to olayi` 1 wherein the molar ratio ot carbonate to zinc in the aqueous ammoniacakfgmmonium carbonate zinc solution is controlled to between 0.05 and 3%
3. 3. A method according to daim 1 or 2. wherein a portion ot the carbonate is translerred from the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution to organic solution of a zinc extractant. such that the method more specifically comprises the steps ot: Contacting the aQUeous ammoniacai ammonium carbonate zinc solution with ari organic solution of a zinc extractant` such that a portion ol the zinc and the carbonate is transterred lrom the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution. producing a zinc› depleted carbonatevdepleted aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution and a zinc-and carbonate-enriched organic solution ol 3 zinc extractant; WC 20! msne? PCTIA tizoimmmr. ii. Separating the zinc- and carbonate-enriched organic solution ol a zinc extractant and zinc-depleted carbonate-depleted aqueous solution; iii. Contacting the zinc-and carbonate-enriched organic solution with an acidic solution producing a zinc-enriched aqueous acid solution. a zinc- and carbonate~depleted organic solution of a zinc extractant and carbon dioxide; and iv. Recovenng zinc trom the zinc-enriched aqueous acid solution.
4. 4. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3. wherein the method turther comprises the step ol: Leaching a zinc-containing carbonate-oontaining ore with an ammoniacal solution to produce the aqueous ammoniacaâqimmonium carbonate zinc solution. 9.
5. 5. A method according to ctaim 4. wherein [ßejzinocontaining ore is Ieached with an ammoniacal solution in the proscnqgds? ammonium carbonatc to producc the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium cgsb%nate zinc solution.
6. 6. A method aooording to claimQgQNherein the carbon dioxide produced in the step Contacting th nc-and carbonate-ennched organic solution with an acidic solution pßâucing a zinc-enriched aqueoiis acid solution, a zinc- and carbonate-depleted organic solution ol a zinc extractant and carbon is absorbed into an aqueous solution to produce an aqueous solution ol carbon
7. 7. A method according to ctaim 6. wherein the carbon dioxide is absorbed into an aqueous solution containing ammonia.
8. 8. A method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the carbon dioxide is absorbed into the zinc- and carbonate-depleted aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution produced during step (i).
9. 9. A method according to any one of claims 6 to 8. wherein the aqueous solution ol carbon dioxide is used in the ammoniacal teaching ol a zinc-containing ore to PCTM uzmanlari::. produce the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution which is the leed to step (i).
10. 10.A method according to any one of the proceding claims, wherein the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution contains tree ammonia. such that the method more specifically compnses a method tor recovering zinc from an aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution oontaining tree ammonia. the method comprising the steps ot: Contacting the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution oontaining tree ammonia with an organic solution ol a zinc extractant. such that a portion of the zinc and ammonia is translerred from the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution oontaining tree ammogtâ producing a zinc- and ammonia- depleted aqueous aminpiiacal ammonium carbonate solution and a zinc and amnlgia- -enriched organic solution ot a Separating the zinc egiîbhed ammonia- -enriched organic solution ot zinc extractant; a zinc extractantgand zinc-depleted ammonia-depleted aqueous solution; 483 Contactgiê'o the zinc- -enriched ammonia- -enriched organic solution withzçsân ammonia sorub solution to reduce ammonia thereby producing a zinc-rich ammonia-depleted organic Contacting the zinc-enriched ammonia-depieted organic solution with an aoidic solution producing a zinc-rich acid solution and a zinc-depleted ammoniadepleted organic solution of a zinc extractant; and Recovering zinc from the zinc-rich acid solution
11. 11.A method accoiding to claim 10. wherein the ammonia scrub solution preierably has a pH in the range 2 to 7.
12. 12. A method according to claim 10 or 11. wherein the molar ratio oi carbonate to zinc in the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution containing tree ammonia IS oontrolled lO between 0.05 and 2.0.
13. PCTM llztiimmwzn 13.
14. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 9. wherein the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution contains impurities. such that the method more speciücally comprises a method tor recovering zinc from an aqueous impunty-containing ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution. the method comprising the steps ot: Contacting the aqueous impurity-containing zinc ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution with an organic solution of a zinc extractant. such that a portion of the zinc and the impurities from the aqueous impurity-containing ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution ptoducing en impurity~depleted zinc-depleted aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution and an impurity- enriched zinc-enriched organic solution %l a zinc extractant; Separating the impurity enriched zigêennched organic solution ot a zinc extractant and impuriiêgpleted zinc- depleted aqueOUs Contacting the impun'têsgnn'ched zinc- -enriched organic solution with solution: an impurity son& solution to reduce the impurities thereby producing an dîburity- -depleted zinc- e-nriched organic solution ol 8 zinc exuaßnt and an impurity- -enriched solution Contgêîng the impunty- depleted zinc- -enriched organic solution with an acidic solution pi'oducing a zincenriched aqueous acid solution and an impunty-depleted zincoepleted organic solution ol a zinc extractant; and Recovenng zinc tmm the zinc-enriched aqueous acid solution 14.
15. A method acconding to ctaim 11, wherein the impurity scrub solution preterably 15.
16. A method according to claim 11. wherein the molar ratio ot carbonate to zinc in the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium catbonale zinc solution containing ltee ammonia is controlled to between 0.05 and 2.0 ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution contains both lree ammonia and impurities. where the method more specifically comprises both the steps of: Contacting the zinc-enriched ammoniaienriched organic solution With a ammonia scrub solution to remove ammonia thereby producing a zinc- ennched ammonia-depleted organic solution ol a zinc extractant and an ammonia-ennched solution: corilacting the impurity-ennched zinc-enriched orgaiiic solution witli an impurity scrub solution to remove the impun'ties thereby producing an impurity-depleted ziric-enriched organic solutioßn of a zinc extractant and an impurity-enriched solution 059:`
17. 17.A method according any ol one the preoedingtlaims. wherein the molar ratio ol ammonia to zinc in the aqueous solution @Between 3 and 20.
18. 18 A method according to any oneßâßla the preceding claims wherein the zinc extractant is selected from the gg'up quuid organophosphorus extractant quuid oxime extractant. carboxylgâcid extractant and combinations thereol.
19. 19.A method accordingocßroany one ol the preceding claims. wherein the zinc extractant is Bisl2êe9iylhexyl) hydrogen phosphate
20. 20.A method according to any one of the preceding claims. wherein the method adding a phase modifier to the organic solution of a zinc extractant pnor to the step ot: contacting the aqueovs ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution with an organic solution ol a zinc cxtractant, such that a portion ol the zinc is translerred trom the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution, producing a zinc-depleted aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate solution and a zinc-enriched organic solution ol a zinc extractant tiziiioiimiiizr.
21. 21.A method according to any one of the preceding claims. wherein the organic solution ot a zinc extractant. comprises a zinc extractant and a diluent.
22. 22.A method according to any one ot the preceding claims. wherein the molar ratio ol carbonate to zinc in the organic solution is between 0.05 and 2.0.
23. 23.A method according to any one of the precedirig claims. wherein the molar ratio of ammonia to zinc to carbonate in the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution is about 4:1 :1 .
24. 24. A method according to any one of the preceding claims; wherein at least 10% of the zinc Species present in the organic solution following the step ol: Contacting the aqueous ammoniacal ammonium carbonate zinc solution with an organic solution ot a zinc extractant such that a portion ot the zinc is transferred from the aqueous ammongcal ammonium carbonate zinc solution producing a zinc- depleted `âtîiueous ammoniaml ammonium carbonate solution and a zincgéa'iched organic solution ol a zinc extractant 51"` is in the form of ZI'IRHC03. wheöea is the extractant.