Processing of copper anodic-slimes for extraction of valuable metals

This work focuses on processing of anodic slimes obtained from an Egyptian copper electrorefining plant. The anodic slimes are characterized by high concentrations of copper, lead, tin and silver. The proposed hydrometallurgical process consists of two leaching stages for the extraction of copper (H2SO4–O2) and silver (thiourea–Fe3+), and pyrometallurgical treatment of the remaining slimes for production of Pb–Sn soldering alloy. Factors affecting both the leaching and smelting stages were studied.