Method for obtaining copper and precious metals from copper-iron sulphide ores or ore concentrates

Abstract

Process for extracting copper and precious metals from copper and iron bearing ores, ore concentrates or minerals, comprising the following steps: converting the copper and iron bearing ores, ore concentrates or minerals to copper-containing sulfides and iron sulfides by reaction with sulfur at 300 to 600° C. for at least 5 min; grinding the reaction product; physically separating the copper-containing sulfides at least partially from iron sulfides; treating the separated copper-containing sulfides by pyrometallurgical or hydrometallurgical processes to obtain copper.

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