Hydrometallurgical processing of chalcopyrite: A review of leaching techniques

Copper, an essential metal for the energy transition, is primarily obtained from chalcopyrite through hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical methods. The risks and harmful impacts of these processes pose significant concerns for environmental and human safety, highlighting the need for more efficient and eco-friendly hydrometallurgical methods. This review article emphasizes current processes such as oxidative leaching, bioleaching, and pressure leaching that have demonstrated efficiency in overcoming the complicated chalcopyrite network. Oxidative leaching operates under benign conditions within the leaching media; nevertheless, the introduction of oxidizing agents provides benefits and advantages. Bioleaching, a non-aggressive method, has shown a gradual increase in copper extraction efficiency and has been explored using both primary and secondary sources. Pressure leaching, known for its effectiveness and selectivity in copper extraction, is becoming commercially more viable with increased research investments. This research also provides important data for advancing future research in the field.