Enhancing electrowinning technology: reduction of acid mist generation

The Challenge

Acid mist produced during copper production can cause irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory system, and presents a serious occupational health hazard to industry workers.

It also contributes to corrosion of refinery equipment and infrastructure. Current mitigation strategies focus on treating acid mist rather than preventing its formation, and are expensive and only partially effective.

Key Findings

This research identified a number of novel strategies for mitigating acid mist in copper production through inhibiting bubble formation in acid solutions, either through use of particulate cathodes and anodes or through applying an alternative anode reaction that does not generate gas.

In addition to their workplace health benefits, these strategies also deliver cost saving benefits through operating at a lower voltage than conventional cells used in the industry.

Benefits to WA

Limiting bubble formation and consequently reducing acid mist production in copper processing facilities would deliver safer workplaces for the industry and save costs by eliminating the need for mist mitigation measures and reducing acid corrosion requiring equipment maintenance or replacement.

Keywords: electrowinning, acid mist generation