preprints.org > chemistry and materials science > metals, alloys and metallurgy > doi: 10.20944/preprints202309.0398.v1

Preprint Review Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Version 1 : Received: 5 September 2023 / Approved: 6 September 2023 / Online: 6 September 2023 (09:31:47 CEST)

Various methods including electrochemical purification, chemical precipitation, solvent extraction, and ion-exchange resins, have maturely been used for removal of copper from nickel anolyte. Interestingly, these approaches of copper removal from nickel anolyte by precipitation are well used as the primary industrial method in nickel production again. However, these methods suffer from several severe drawbacks in industrial practices. One is that a small amount of nickel precipitates with copper in slags，resulting in slag treatment difficulties. Second, this process requires an extremely high activity of the sulfide-based copper removal agents which results in high production costs; the short storage period of the copper removal agent is another drawback of this method. These have been the key challenges in the smelting process of nickel. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the nickel removal methods used for nickel anolyte purification, electrochemical purification, chemical precipitation, solvent extraction, and ionexchange resins. The advantages and feasibilities of each technique in industrial applications are also explored and analyzed. Finally, we demonstrate that ion-exchange resin-based extraction method can pave a new path for metallurgical research on nickel.

nickel electrolysis; copper removal; iminodiacetic acid chelating resin; electrochemical purification; isostere principle

Chemistry and Materials Science, Metals, Alloys and Metallurgy

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