Aims

The main objective of this course is to provide students with general basic knowledge about different aspects, problems and applications of chemical metallurgy and to provide them with an in-depth knowledge of leaching, solvent extraction and ion exchange. The principles of solvometallurgy are introduced.

Aim 1: The students can explain and apply the principles of metal ion solvation and complexation in concentrated solutions. The students are familiar with the concepts of activity and activity coefficient. They can calculate complex equilibria; they can construct and interpret speciation and phase stability diagrams. The students can determine the conditions for removal of metals from solution by selective precipitation.

Aim 2: The students understand the theory of solvent extraction. They can explain the different types of extractants, diluents and modifiers, the different equipment used in industrial solvent extraction, and the application of solvent extraction in extractive metallurgy.

Aim 3: The students understand the theory of ion exchange. They can explain the different types of ion exchange resins, ion exchange membranes, different column elution protocols, the application of ion exchange in extractive metallurgy, and the use of ion exchange in (waste) water treatment. The students can explain the advantages and disadvantages of solvent extraction versus ion exchange.

Aim 4: The students understand the major flow sheets in extractive metallurgy of different non-ferrous metals, and in particular those of copper and zinc. The student can explain hydrometallurgical unit operations.

Aim 5: The students can explain the extractive metallurgy of rare earths in all its aspects, have knowledge of the processing of different types of rare-earth ores, preparation of concentrates, separation of mixtures of rare earths, and transformation of rare-earth oxides in rare-earth metals.

Aim 6: The students understand the chemistry of processing of spent nuclear fuel in all its aspects, have knowledge of the PUREX process and advanced separation processes for removal of minor actinides (TRUEX, DIAMEX, SANEX, GANEX, TALSPEAK,...).

Aim 7: The students understand the principles of solvometallurgy (solvent leaching, nonaqueous solvent extraction, nonaqueous ion exchange); they are able to make a comparison between solvometallurgy and hydrometallurgy.

Previous knowledge

Students are familiar with basic knowledge of chemistry and physics.

Is included in these courses of study

• Courses for Exchange Students Faculty of Science (Leuven)
• Master of Chemistry (Leuven) 120 ects.