Extraction of copper, nickel and cobalt from the leach liquor of manganese-bearing sea nodules using LIX 984N and ACORGA M5640

This paper describes a method, using sulfuric acid and activated charcoal for leaching Polymetallic sea nodules. Resulting leach solutions were examined for the extraction of copper, nickel and cobalt using LIX 984N and ACORGA M5640 in kerosene. After the removal of manganese and iron impurities from the leach liquor, copper and nickel were co-extracted leaving cobalt in the raffinate. The selective stripping of nickel and copper produces solutions rich in these metals, while regenerating the solvent for reuse.

Graphical abstractPicture of the sea nodules.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Almost quantitative extraction of copper, nickel and cobalt from the sea nodules were achieved. ► Selective separation of copper, nickel and cobalt from other associated metals from the sea nodules. ► Regeneration of the extractant.