Beneficiation of copper slag

In this study, the recovery of metallic values such as copper and cobalt from the ancient copper slag is investigated. The sample containing 17.08% Cu and 0.55% Co were subject to experimental studies. Sieve analysis after crushing by roll crusher showed that the copper content of +2 mm size fraction 3.9% in weight is 90.70%. In order to recover copper from -2 mm size fraction, shaking table, flotation and leaching tests were conducted. After shaking table experiments, a concentrate containing 19.26% Cu, 0.616% Co could be produced with 51.4 % Cu recovery. In the flotation tests, a concentrate containing 39.34% Cu with 78.9 % Cu recovery can be obtained. On the other hand, copper and cobalt that remained in the flotation tailings was recovered by H2SO4 leaching. As the results of leaching experiment, recovery of copper and cobalt found as 73% and 65.1% respectively.