A recent study published in the journal ‘Journal of Engineering Science’ sheds light on a promising method for extracting zinc from mixed sulfide-oxide lead and zinc ore using an innovative leaching process. Conducted by JIA Nan-nan from the School of Metallurgical and Ecological Engineering at the University of Science and Technology Beijing, this research could have significant implications for the construction sector, particularly in materials sourcing and sustainability.
The study explored the leaching of zinc in an ammonia-ammonium sulfate solution, enhanced with ammonium persulfate as an oxidant, under conditions of atmospheric pressure and lower temperatures. This approach not only achieved an impressive zinc leaching rate of 93.2% but also demonstrated high selectivity, with minimal contamination from other metal ions. JIA noted, “The efficiency and selectivity of this ammoniacal leaching system simplify the subsequent purification and product preparation processes, making it a game-changer for the industry.”
The implications of this research extend beyond the laboratory. As construction materials increasingly aim for sustainability and reduced environmental impact, the ability to extract valuable metals like zinc efficiently and selectively could lead to more sustainable sourcing practices. Zinc is vital for various construction applications, including galvanization to prevent corrosion in steel structures, making this research particularly relevant for construction companies looking to enhance their material sustainability profiles.
The kinetics of the leaching process revealed that the oxidative leaching can be modeled using a shrinking core model, indicating that product layer diffusion plays a crucial role. The calculated activation energy for the dissolution reaction was found to be 17.89 kJ·mol-1, suggesting a relatively low energy requirement for the process. This efficiency could translate into lower operational costs for mining and processing companies, fostering a more economically viable pathway for zinc recovery.
As the construction sector continues to grapple with the challenges of resource depletion and environmental regulations, advancements like this one could pave the way for more responsible mining practices. The research not only highlights the potential for improved extraction techniques but also aligns with the industry’s growing commitment to sustainability.
For those interested in the technical aspects and further details of this study, it can be accessed through the University of Science and Technology Beijing’s website at lead_author_affiliation. The findings from JIA Nan-nan’s research represent a significant step forward in the field of metallurgical engineering, promising to reshape the landscape of resource recovery in the construction industry.
