Studies into the separation of the component metals of chrome residue

Abstract

Chrome residue, the disposal product of a chrome ore pyrometallurgical extraction process, contains a number of valuable metals in oxide form. The bulk extraction of the main metals in residue is investigated by acid dissolution, followed by solvent extraction techniques for the selective recovery of the metals from solution. Efforts have been focused on screening for Cr(III) extractants, and parameter optimization for maximizing extraction efficiency and selectivity of suitable extractants. The implications for a potential process are discussed. This thesis presents laboratory results of studies to determine optimum dissolution and selective metal extraction conditions and reagents.