Outokumpu has developed a chloride-based technique for chalcopyrite leaching and high-purity copper metal production. According to the company, the patented 'HydroCopper' process uses less energy than existing SX/EW methods, and is faster than bioleaching. It can handle low-grade concentrates that are unsuitable for smelting, and is better able to recover gold and silver. Capital and operating costs are said to be low. Outokumpu is building a demonstration plant with a capacity of 1 t/d copper, which will be operational by the end of 2002, and has started discussions to build the first production-scale plant with several potential partners.

Source:
Platts Metals Week, 18 Mar 2002, pp 8-9
news release, Outokumpu, 14 Mar 2002

Outokumpu has a