Copper extraction

Copper extraction recovers copper from ores, mineral concentrates, and recycled materials through physical separation, chemical treatment, and refining.

Froth flotation: A mineral-processing method that separates hydrophobic particles from water using air bubbles and surface-active reagents. It concentrates many copper sulfide ores before smelting.
Copper ore: Rock containing copper minerals in concentrations that may be economically recoverable. Its grade and mineralogy determine which extraction route is viable.
Bioleaching: The use of microorganisms or their products to help dissolve metals from ores or concentrates. Microbial activity can assist copper recovery from low-grade sulfide ores.
Hydrometallurgy: Metal extraction and processing that use aqueous chemistry rather than high-temperature smelting as the primary treatment. It contrasts with pyrometallurgical routes and suits many oxide ores.
Copper smelting: High-temperature treatment that converts copper concentrates into molten copper-rich matte and separates much of their iron and sulfur. It transforms sulfide concentrates into matte for further conversion.
Chalcopyrite: A copper iron sulfide mineral, CuFeS₂, and the most abundant copper ore mineral. It is the main sulfide feed for conventional copper smelting.
In-situ leaching: The recovery of soluble minerals by circulating leaching solutions through an underground deposit. It can recover copper without excavating and hauling all the ore.
Pyrometallurgy: Metal extraction and refining by high-temperature processes such as roasting, smelting, and converting. It is the conventional route for many copper sulfide concentrates.
Converting (metallurgy): A metallurgical process that removes iron and sulfur from molten matte by oxidation. It turns copper matte into blister copper after smelting.
Chalcocite: A copper sulfide mineral, Cu₂S, containing a high proportion of copper. Its copper-rich composition makes it a significant sulfide ore.

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