Context:

Electric arc furnace dust (EAFD) is a potential source of contamination, mainly due to heavy and easily leachable metals that it can contain (Pb, Zn, and Cd). However, EAFD also arouses great interest in the development of techniques for its treatment due to the added value that its high zinc content gives it. Although some recycling methods have been implemented, they are characterized by demanding high energy consumption and operating in extreme conditions. Therefore in this work, an alternative with a technical approach is presented to safely recycle EAFD through the selective extraction of zinc by hydrometallurgy obtaining, a liquor rich in zinc for its subsequent recovery and future application and a detoxified solid rich in iron for its recirculation in steel processes

Methodology:

The experiments were carried out through agitation leaching using sodium citrate and nitric acid solutions. They were worked at moderate concentrations and stirring speeds and ambient pressure and temperature. Some of the study variables were modified to establish the best conditions for the process.

Results:

After making a correlation about the obtained results and the analysis of the variables, it was determined that it is possible to achieve extractions above 50% of Zn and below 3% of Fe with citrate solutions. Furthermore, a concentration of 0.5 M and an S: L ratio of 25g / 1 L are some of the most favorable conditions for the extraction process.

Conclusions:

It is possible to properly treat the EAFD residue by a hydrometallurgical route using an organic agent as a leaching solution. Unlike nitric acid treatment, citrate leaching allows the metal of interest to be selectively extracted under moderate working conditions

Financing:

Vicerrectoría de Investigación y Extensión - Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia (VIE-UPTC)