Solar thermal extraction of copper — status report and research strategies

摘要

With the aim to develop more sustainable metal extraction processes, research on the direct decomposition of copper sulfides into copper and elemental sulfur has been initiated. A key element of the approach is the use of concentrated sunlight to reach reaction temperatures above 2000°K and to provide the process heat with virtually no emission of sulfur dioxide or carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the approach offers new options for removal and recovery of volatile impurities.