Stabilization of Arsenic Byproduct from Decopperization Process to Scorodite Using Methanesulfonic Acid

Junmo Ahn, Jiajia Wu, Jaewoo Ahn, Jaeheon Lee

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Arsenic (As) is a toxic byproduct from copper smelting. Arsenic immobilization is critical to prevent detrimental impacts on the environment. Arsenic compounds from decopperization, such as arsenic trioxide, requires to be dissolved and stabilized into scorodite (FeAsO4 2H2O). However, the conventional lixiviant, sulfuric acid (H2SO4) limits As leaching, so methanesulfonic acid (MSA), was investigated as an alternative lixiviant for arsenic leaching and scorodite crystallization. Results of arsenic trioxide leaching show that arsenic extraction with MSA was above 90% at 80oC within 4 hours. In addition, arsenic removal as scorodite was 98% at 80oC. Overall, MSA was proven to be a feasible-alternative to the standard sulfuric acid leaching of arsenic trioxide with the potential to immobilize arsenic by precipitating it to scorodite in the MSA medium.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication9th International Symposium on Hydrometallurgy 2023
PublisherSociety for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration
ISBN (Electronic)9780873355216
StatePublished - 2023
Externally publishedYes
Event9th International Symposium on Hydrometallurgy 2023 - Phoenix, United States
Duration: Aug 27 2023Aug 30 2023

Publication series

Name9th International Symposium on Hydrometallurgy 2023

Conference

Conference9th International Symposium on Hydrometallurgy 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPhoenix
Period8/27/238/30/23

Keywords

  • Alternative lixiviant
  • Arsenic immobilization
  • Crystallization
  • MSA
  • Methanesulfonic acid
  • Scorodite

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
  • Materials Chemistry
  • Metals and Alloys

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