The Solubilities of Zn, Sb and Se Found in Anode Slime

Abstract

The purposes of the study were to examine the methods used for

recovering the precious metals from the anode slime formed as a byproduct

during the production of high purity copper by electrolytic means,

and to investigate the products obtained. The characteristics of the

electrolysed copper dictate the type and the amounts of Cu, Se, Te, Zn,

Pb, Fe, Ni, Ag, Au and Pt group of metals present in the slime. Since the

anode slime has a very low ratio of zinc by virtue, obtaining zinc from its

ore is the best and most convenient way. The solubilities of Zn, Sb and

Se present in an anode slime were examined by using sulphuric acid for

the effects of the concentration of solvent, temperature and time. The

increase in temperature and time (at 210ºC) increased the solubility of Se

only and 80% of Se passed into the solution.