CA2729239A1 - Electro-extraction of desirable metals from hydroxy acids, by microwaves and electrolysis - Google Patents
Electro-extraction of desirable metals from hydroxy acids, by microwaves and electrolysis Download PDFInfo
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- CA2729239A1 CA2729239A1 CA2729239A CA2729239A CA2729239A1 CA 2729239 A1 CA2729239 A1 CA 2729239A1 CA 2729239 A CA2729239 A CA 2729239A CA 2729239 A CA2729239 A CA 2729239A CA 2729239 A1 CA2729239 A1 CA 2729239A1
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C22—METALLURGY; FERROUS OR NON-FERROUS ALLOYS; TREATMENT OF ALLOYS OR NON-FERROUS METALS
- C22B—PRODUCTION AND REFINING OF METALS; PRETREATMENT OF RAW MATERIALS
- C22B3/00—Extraction of metal compounds from ores or concentrates by wet processes
- C22B3/20—Treatment or purification of solutions, e.g. obtained by leaching
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C1/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions
- C25C1/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions or iron group metals, refractory metals or manganese
- C25C1/08—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions or iron group metals, refractory metals or manganese of nickel or cobalt
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- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C1/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions
- C25C1/06—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions or iron group metals, refractory metals or manganese
- C25C1/10—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions or iron group metals, refractory metals or manganese of chromium or manganese
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- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
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- C25C1/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions
- C25C1/12—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions of copper
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
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- C25C1/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions
- C25C1/16—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions of zinc, cadmium or mercury
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC PRODUCTION, RECOVERY OR REFINING OF METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25C1/00—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions
- C25C1/20—Electrolytic production, recovery or refining of metals by electrolysis of solutions of noble metals
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Abstract
An Electro-Extraction process, comprising sequential chemical procedures of removing a precious and desirable metal ion from complex anions of strong in-organic acids, by repositioning said metal ion as the integral component in an anion of a newly-formed aqueous inorganic hydroxy acid complex, as which said hydroxy acid anion is chemically separated from gangue, base metal hydroxides, and intermetallic complex salts, and from which said anion is extracted a metal ion as a reduced metal, an metal oxide, or a metal hydroxide by at least one of two procedures, comprising an exposure of said hydroxy acid anion complex to an alternating electromagnetic force, or exposing said anion to a voltage potential between a positively and a negatively charged electrode.
Description
DESCRIPTION:
TITLE: ELECTRO-EXTRACTION OF DESIRABLE METALS FROM HYDROXY ACIDS. BY
MICROWAVES
AND ELECTROLYSIS.
1.0 DEFINITIONS, BACKGROND, TECHNICAL PROBLEMS, AND USEFULNESS.
1.1.0 Definitions And Use Of Terms In This Disclosure 1.1.1. Desirable Metal refers specifically to gold, silver, copper, zinc, platinum, palladium, iridium, rhodium, chromium, cobalt, nickel, and any other transition metal, which has a chemical bond-strength with oxygen that is weaker than the chemical bond strength between hydrogen and oxygen.
1.1.2. Intermolecular Water, HOH, is water, which is intermolecularly integrated into the ionic configuration of an aqueous acid, base and salt.
[A plausible distinction between "0" and H20: In pure water, H20, which does not contain ionic salts, the electron bond between H and 0 is so strong that electrons cannot be shared and electricity cannot flow. In intermolecular water HOH, the exposure to adjacent electromagnetically charged cations and anions of salts effectively weakens the H and 0 electron bond, that in "O" electrons can be shared, and electricity can flow.
(cf., Section 3.4Ø)]
1.1.3. Hydroxy Acid refers to an INORGANIC aqueous acid, in which a complex anion molecularly consists of an ion of a Desirable Metal, Intermolecular Water (hydrate), and hydroxides.
[E.g., H+(Au("O"OH)4)'. Metals, which have chemical bond strength with oxygen, which is stronger than the chemical bond strength between hydrogen and oxygen, do not form Hydroxy Acids; they form oxyacids, such as, osmic acid, H20s04, titanic acid, H2TiO4, and others.]
TITLE: ELECTRO-EXTRACTION OF DESIRABLE METALS FROM HYDROXY ACIDS. BY
MICROWAVES
AND ELECTROLYSIS.
1.0 DEFINITIONS, BACKGROND, TECHNICAL PROBLEMS, AND USEFULNESS.
1.1.0 Definitions And Use Of Terms In This Disclosure 1.1.1. Desirable Metal refers specifically to gold, silver, copper, zinc, platinum, palladium, iridium, rhodium, chromium, cobalt, nickel, and any other transition metal, which has a chemical bond-strength with oxygen that is weaker than the chemical bond strength between hydrogen and oxygen.
1.1.2. Intermolecular Water, HOH, is water, which is intermolecularly integrated into the ionic configuration of an aqueous acid, base and salt.
[A plausible distinction between "0" and H20: In pure water, H20, which does not contain ionic salts, the electron bond between H and 0 is so strong that electrons cannot be shared and electricity cannot flow. In intermolecular water HOH, the exposure to adjacent electromagnetically charged cations and anions of salts effectively weakens the H and 0 electron bond, that in "O" electrons can be shared, and electricity can flow.
(cf., Section 3.4Ø)]
1.1.3. Hydroxy Acid refers to an INORGANIC aqueous acid, in which a complex anion molecularly consists of an ion of a Desirable Metal, Intermolecular Water (hydrate), and hydroxides.
[E.g., H+(Au("O"OH)4)'. Metals, which have chemical bond strength with oxygen, which is stronger than the chemical bond strength between hydrogen and oxygen, do not form Hydroxy Acids; they form oxyacids, such as, osmic acid, H20s04, titanic acid, H2TiO4, and others.]
1.1.4. Electro-Extraction reduces the ionic metal component of a complex Hydroxy Acid anion to a metal, a metal oxide, or a metal hydroxide by means of the alternating electromagnetic force of microwaves, and/or an electron transfer at electrodes of an electrolytic cell.
1.2. Background.
An effective method of mining gold is by cyanide leaching. However, the very word cyanide is alarming. A more common method of metal mining extraction is by floatation, which requires great volumes of water and causes environmental concerns. But floatation focuses primarily on sulfide ores and has little application, when the ore is in the format of oxides.
Since in metamorphic rock (i.e., one third of the earth's crust) the previously existing sulfides were decomposed by heat and altered into oxides, many Desirable Metals, which naturally exist as oxides, are virtually ignored by prospectors and miners. Furthermore, in re-heated metamorphic rock, gold oxide is reduced at the low temperature of 250 degrees Celsius to an infinitely small, atomic elemental format, for which floatation is ineffective. Since the mining industry, except for the blast furnace, has no effective method of recovery of metals from oxide ores, the mining industry fails to take advantage of many mineral and placer oxide resources.
1.3. Technical Problems.
Electro-Extraction offers a solution for the above-stated problems. But the recovery of Desirable Metals from a solution of acids is derogatorily identified by some as wet-lab technology, and was not taken seriously in the past, because of what seemed to be insurmountable difficulties: (1) Aqua Regia not only dissolves Desirable Metals, it also forms a great number of extremely complex chemical salts, and generates even more problematic complex oxyacids, such as osmic and ruthenic acids, and their respective salts. (2) Chemical extraction and electro-extraction seemed to be a virtual impossibility, unless the interfering salts were first painstakingly eliminated.
1.4. Usefulness Of This Invention.
By changing the molecular configuration of a Desirable Metal from the salt of a strong inorganic acid to a Hydroxy Acid, this invention provides effective and environment-friendly methods of extracting Desirable Metals from virtually any solution - be it from ore, or scrap metals. Electro-Extraction has many benefits: Liquid by-products of this process may be re-cycled and re-used.
Ammonium salts may be extracted and be sold as fertilizers, or they may enrich gangue of ore to serve as soil supplements. Hydroxide by-products may be harvested for their metal content.
Whereas, sulfide ore concentrate is usually produced by floatation, and then shipped to refining plants, an Electro-Extraction process produces at the mining site Desirable Metals in an almost pure elemental state. This offers to the mining industry the option to be producers of semi-refined products, rather than being mere providers of raw materials.
2.0 DESCRIPTION OF THREE PREPARATORY PROCEDURES TO ELECTRO-EXTRACTION.
2.1. Dissolution.
The Desirable Metals, which are contained in finely crushed ore, may be dissolved by leaching in a mixture of the strong sulfuric, hydrochloric and nitric acids, which may be diluted by water at a ratio of ten to one. Preparatory roasting may be required if a high concentration of sulfides, particularly gold sulfide, is processed. To dissolve silver in the latter stages of leaching, selective leaching may be required, by increasing the content of nitric acid after neutralizing hydrochloric acid, in which silver chloride was insoluble. If the ore is rich in magnetic refractory oxides, frequently associated with Platinum Group Elements, they may be removed from the ore by magnetic separation, electrolytically liquefied by a "Redoxer," and be prepared for Electro-Extraction.
2.2. Preparation Of Hydroxy Acids.
Before the separation of liquid aqueous salts from insoluble gangue, the inventor gradually neutralized all strong acids by the addition of aqueous ammonium, to a pH
factor of approximately six. (cf., Formula, Section 3.4.1.) Then the inventor cautiously raised the pH
factor to be slightly above seven, after which the inventor re-acidified the substance with formic acid to a pH of slightly below seven. To recover the silver from the gangue, the formic acid again will have to be neutralized with aqueous ammonium, for silver precipitates by the above addition of formic acid.
1.2. Background.
An effective method of mining gold is by cyanide leaching. However, the very word cyanide is alarming. A more common method of metal mining extraction is by floatation, which requires great volumes of water and causes environmental concerns. But floatation focuses primarily on sulfide ores and has little application, when the ore is in the format of oxides.
Since in metamorphic rock (i.e., one third of the earth's crust) the previously existing sulfides were decomposed by heat and altered into oxides, many Desirable Metals, which naturally exist as oxides, are virtually ignored by prospectors and miners. Furthermore, in re-heated metamorphic rock, gold oxide is reduced at the low temperature of 250 degrees Celsius to an infinitely small, atomic elemental format, for which floatation is ineffective. Since the mining industry, except for the blast furnace, has no effective method of recovery of metals from oxide ores, the mining industry fails to take advantage of many mineral and placer oxide resources.
1.3. Technical Problems.
Electro-Extraction offers a solution for the above-stated problems. But the recovery of Desirable Metals from a solution of acids is derogatorily identified by some as wet-lab technology, and was not taken seriously in the past, because of what seemed to be insurmountable difficulties: (1) Aqua Regia not only dissolves Desirable Metals, it also forms a great number of extremely complex chemical salts, and generates even more problematic complex oxyacids, such as osmic and ruthenic acids, and their respective salts. (2) Chemical extraction and electro-extraction seemed to be a virtual impossibility, unless the interfering salts were first painstakingly eliminated.
1.4. Usefulness Of This Invention.
By changing the molecular configuration of a Desirable Metal from the salt of a strong inorganic acid to a Hydroxy Acid, this invention provides effective and environment-friendly methods of extracting Desirable Metals from virtually any solution - be it from ore, or scrap metals. Electro-Extraction has many benefits: Liquid by-products of this process may be re-cycled and re-used.
Ammonium salts may be extracted and be sold as fertilizers, or they may enrich gangue of ore to serve as soil supplements. Hydroxide by-products may be harvested for their metal content.
Whereas, sulfide ore concentrate is usually produced by floatation, and then shipped to refining plants, an Electro-Extraction process produces at the mining site Desirable Metals in an almost pure elemental state. This offers to the mining industry the option to be producers of semi-refined products, rather than being mere providers of raw materials.
2.0 DESCRIPTION OF THREE PREPARATORY PROCEDURES TO ELECTRO-EXTRACTION.
2.1. Dissolution.
The Desirable Metals, which are contained in finely crushed ore, may be dissolved by leaching in a mixture of the strong sulfuric, hydrochloric and nitric acids, which may be diluted by water at a ratio of ten to one. Preparatory roasting may be required if a high concentration of sulfides, particularly gold sulfide, is processed. To dissolve silver in the latter stages of leaching, selective leaching may be required, by increasing the content of nitric acid after neutralizing hydrochloric acid, in which silver chloride was insoluble. If the ore is rich in magnetic refractory oxides, frequently associated with Platinum Group Elements, they may be removed from the ore by magnetic separation, electrolytically liquefied by a "Redoxer," and be prepared for Electro-Extraction.
2.2. Preparation Of Hydroxy Acids.
Before the separation of liquid aqueous salts from insoluble gangue, the inventor gradually neutralized all strong acids by the addition of aqueous ammonium, to a pH
factor of approximately six. (cf., Formula, Section 3.4.1.) Then the inventor cautiously raised the pH
factor to be slightly above seven, after which the inventor re-acidified the substance with formic acid to a pH of slightly below seven. To recover the silver from the gangue, the formic acid again will have to be neutralized with aqueous ammonium, for silver precipitates by the above addition of formic acid.
Reasons Being: When a mixture of several acids is neutralized, by the addition of aqueous ammonium, then the cation of the neutralizing agent forms salts and progressively neutralizes all acids, from the strongest to the weakest until only Hydroxy Acids are left. At the transition from an acidic solution to an alkali solution, the Desirable Metals, which previously existed as acidic complex aqueous salts of strong acids, become aqueous Hydroxy Acids. As Hydroxy Acids, they are chemically separated from molecular bonding with other metals; for Hydroxy Acids are molecular structures, which consist only of one Desirable Metal, hydrogen, oxygen and possibly with ammonium as a complex of the neutralizing agent. As such, the aqueous Hydroxy Acids are subject to Electro-Extraction.
The inventor used aqueous ammonium instead of potassium or sodium hydroxide, for the latter form complex sodium and/or potassium hydroxides, which would re-introduce base metals to Hydroxy Acid complexes; also, ammonium dissolves silver and copper better than do sodium and/or potassium hydroxides. But this use of ammonium produces flocculent ammines of the Platinum Group Elements, which would remain mixed-in with the gangue, or hydroxides, if the gangue were not re-acidified with formic acid, in which ammines of PGE Desirable Metals re-liquefy as aqueous HydroxyAcids. (cf., Formula, Section 3.4.3.) 2.3. Separation Of Aqueous Hydroxy Acids From Solid Gangue And Base Metal Hydroxides.
For experimental purposes the inventor made the solid/liquid separation by settling, decanting, filtering, and rinsing. On an industrial scale, vacuum/pressure-assist systems can be applied advantageously. As per personal preference, or the kind of metals to be extracted, a separation of liquid from gangue may occur before or after the neutralization of strong acids. A solid liquid separation of gangue and hydroxy acids may not be required at all, if Electro-Extraction is done only by electrolysis, provided that the extract can be recovered. If Electro-Extraction is done also by microwaves, a solid liquid separation can hardly be avoided.
3Ø TWO MODES OF ELECTRO-EXTRACTION: MICROWAVES AND ELECTROLYSIS.
Depending on personal preference, the various constituents of ore, and unique chemical characteristics of specific groups of metals, which are to be extracted, Electro-Extraction of Desirable Metals may be achieved by: Microwaves and/or Electrolysis. (cf., Flowchart Of Various Procedures.) 3.1Ø Electro-Extraction By Microwaves.
3.1.1. An Observation And Conclusion.
The inventor observed that when iron is submerged in water, it oxidizes and produces flocculent hydroxides; when these hydroxides, are subjected to radiation by microwaves, they are partially altered into granular particles. The inventor applied this principle of his discovery to the precipitation of Desirable Metals. Since microwaves are alternating electromagnetic forces, they exert an electromagnetic force on the bond between the dipolar structures of Intermolecular Water and hydroxides in Hydroxy Acids. This pulsating alternating force alters some complex Hydroxy Acid anions from Format A. to Format B. In Format A., the complex anion of an aqueous Hydroxy Acid is composed by its three constituents: the ion of a Desirable Metal, sub-molecules of Intermolecular Water and hydroxides. In Format B., the electromagnetic force of alternating microwaves exerts a pulsating force on the dipolar sub-molecular structural relationship between Intermolecular Water and hydroxides, which, if strong enough, effectively severs Intermolecular Water from the complex, and makes the Hydroxy Acid anion anhydrous, as which hydroxides precipitate. (cf., Formula, Section 3.4.4.) 3.1.2. Explanatory Note.
Microwave extraction is not equally effective for all anions of Hydroxy Acids, since the intermolecular bond strength within the complex anion of Hydroxy Acids varies, depending on the unique chemical characteristics of its elemental metal ingredient. Whereas the Platinum Group Elements, chromium, cobalt and nickel generally form a relatively strong bond with oxygen (e.g., Pt:(OH)4), such elements may be extracted by a residential-type microwave oven. But, whereas copper, silver and gold form a relatively weak bond with oxygen [e.g. below, Au:(OH)3, 53], copper, silver, and gold cannot be extracted by a residential-type microwave oven;
they will stay in solution. This conveniently can be used to separate the Platinum Group Elements from copper, silver, and gold, which can subsequently be extracted electrolytically. In the future, a Hydroxy Acid Microwave Extraction system may be refined and further developed, whereby different metals may be selectively precipitated by careful calibration, strength, and control of differing microwaves. (Order of Desirable Metals in sequence of relative chemical bond strength with oxygen: Cr, 102; Ir, 99; Rh, 96; Pt, 93; Pd, 91; Co, 91; Ni, 91; Cu, 64, Zn, 64; Au, 53, Ag, 52, cf., Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, Tables on Chemical Bond Strengths.) 3.1.3. Cautionary Note.
If intermolecular water, "O", of a Platinum Group Element Hydroxy Acid (e.g., H2[Pt(("O")OH)6]) is dehydrated, the residual anhydrous complex (H2Pt(OH)6) is extremely unstable;
for the hydroxide, OH", is separated from the cation, H+, only by the very metal, which serves as a catalyst in combing hydrogen with oxygen. This creates the potential for spontaneous combustion, possibly, even an explosion, if such molecules are in significant amounts and concentrations.
(The public recognition of this fact may yet provide a scientific explanation and verification for, heretofore, questionable accounts of spontaneous combustion, even spontaneous human combustion; cf., Section 4.1.2.) 3.2Ø Electra-Extraction By Electrolysis.
3.2.1. Electrolytic Options.
Several options are available, depending on personal preference, the various constituents of ore, and unique chemical characteristics of various groups of metals, which are to be extracted:
1. Extraction before or after a physical separation of liquid Hydroxy Acids from solid gangue, provided that extracts at electrodes are recovered and not re-assimilated with the gangue.
2. Extraction from a neutral solution of an electrolyte.
3. Extraction from a slightly alkali electrolyte.
4. Extraction from a slightly acidic electrolyte.
The inventor used aqueous ammonium instead of potassium or sodium hydroxide, for the latter form complex sodium and/or potassium hydroxides, which would re-introduce base metals to Hydroxy Acid complexes; also, ammonium dissolves silver and copper better than do sodium and/or potassium hydroxides. But this use of ammonium produces flocculent ammines of the Platinum Group Elements, which would remain mixed-in with the gangue, or hydroxides, if the gangue were not re-acidified with formic acid, in which ammines of PGE Desirable Metals re-liquefy as aqueous HydroxyAcids. (cf., Formula, Section 3.4.3.) 2.3. Separation Of Aqueous Hydroxy Acids From Solid Gangue And Base Metal Hydroxides.
For experimental purposes the inventor made the solid/liquid separation by settling, decanting, filtering, and rinsing. On an industrial scale, vacuum/pressure-assist systems can be applied advantageously. As per personal preference, or the kind of metals to be extracted, a separation of liquid from gangue may occur before or after the neutralization of strong acids. A solid liquid separation of gangue and hydroxy acids may not be required at all, if Electro-Extraction is done only by electrolysis, provided that the extract can be recovered. If Electro-Extraction is done also by microwaves, a solid liquid separation can hardly be avoided.
3Ø TWO MODES OF ELECTRO-EXTRACTION: MICROWAVES AND ELECTROLYSIS.
Depending on personal preference, the various constituents of ore, and unique chemical characteristics of specific groups of metals, which are to be extracted, Electro-Extraction of Desirable Metals may be achieved by: Microwaves and/or Electrolysis. (cf., Flowchart Of Various Procedures.) 3.1Ø Electro-Extraction By Microwaves.
3.1.1. An Observation And Conclusion.
The inventor observed that when iron is submerged in water, it oxidizes and produces flocculent hydroxides; when these hydroxides, are subjected to radiation by microwaves, they are partially altered into granular particles. The inventor applied this principle of his discovery to the precipitation of Desirable Metals. Since microwaves are alternating electromagnetic forces, they exert an electromagnetic force on the bond between the dipolar structures of Intermolecular Water and hydroxides in Hydroxy Acids. This pulsating alternating force alters some complex Hydroxy Acid anions from Format A. to Format B. In Format A., the complex anion of an aqueous Hydroxy Acid is composed by its three constituents: the ion of a Desirable Metal, sub-molecules of Intermolecular Water and hydroxides. In Format B., the electromagnetic force of alternating microwaves exerts a pulsating force on the dipolar sub-molecular structural relationship between Intermolecular Water and hydroxides, which, if strong enough, effectively severs Intermolecular Water from the complex, and makes the Hydroxy Acid anion anhydrous, as which hydroxides precipitate. (cf., Formula, Section 3.4.4.) 3.1.2. Explanatory Note.
Microwave extraction is not equally effective for all anions of Hydroxy Acids, since the intermolecular bond strength within the complex anion of Hydroxy Acids varies, depending on the unique chemical characteristics of its elemental metal ingredient. Whereas the Platinum Group Elements, chromium, cobalt and nickel generally form a relatively strong bond with oxygen (e.g., Pt:(OH)4), such elements may be extracted by a residential-type microwave oven. But, whereas copper, silver and gold form a relatively weak bond with oxygen [e.g. below, Au:(OH)3, 53], copper, silver, and gold cannot be extracted by a residential-type microwave oven;
they will stay in solution. This conveniently can be used to separate the Platinum Group Elements from copper, silver, and gold, which can subsequently be extracted electrolytically. In the future, a Hydroxy Acid Microwave Extraction system may be refined and further developed, whereby different metals may be selectively precipitated by careful calibration, strength, and control of differing microwaves. (Order of Desirable Metals in sequence of relative chemical bond strength with oxygen: Cr, 102; Ir, 99; Rh, 96; Pt, 93; Pd, 91; Co, 91; Ni, 91; Cu, 64, Zn, 64; Au, 53, Ag, 52, cf., Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, Tables on Chemical Bond Strengths.) 3.1.3. Cautionary Note.
If intermolecular water, "O", of a Platinum Group Element Hydroxy Acid (e.g., H2[Pt(("O")OH)6]) is dehydrated, the residual anhydrous complex (H2Pt(OH)6) is extremely unstable;
for the hydroxide, OH", is separated from the cation, H+, only by the very metal, which serves as a catalyst in combing hydrogen with oxygen. This creates the potential for spontaneous combustion, possibly, even an explosion, if such molecules are in significant amounts and concentrations.
(The public recognition of this fact may yet provide a scientific explanation and verification for, heretofore, questionable accounts of spontaneous combustion, even spontaneous human combustion; cf., Section 4.1.2.) 3.2Ø Electra-Extraction By Electrolysis.
3.2.1. Electrolytic Options.
Several options are available, depending on personal preference, the various constituents of ore, and unique chemical characteristics of various groups of metals, which are to be extracted:
1. Extraction before or after a physical separation of liquid Hydroxy Acids from solid gangue, provided that extracts at electrodes are recovered and not re-assimilated with the gangue.
2. Extraction from a neutral solution of an electrolyte.
3. Extraction from a slightly alkali electrolyte.
4. Extraction from a slightly acidic electrolyte.
5. Extraction at a negatively charged electrode in a Direct Current circuit.
(cf., Formula, Section 3.4.5.a.) 6. Extraction at a positively charged electrode in a Direct Current circuit.
(cf., Formulae, Section 3.4.5.b.) 7. Extraction at both electrodes in a Direct Current circuit. (cf., Formulae, Section 3.4.5.c.) 8. Extraction at both electrodes in an Alternating Current circuit (cf., Formulae, Section 3.4.5.c.).
(cf., Formula, Section 3.4.5.a.) 6. Extraction at a positively charged electrode in a Direct Current circuit.
(cf., Formulae, Section 3.4.5.b.) 7. Extraction at both electrodes in a Direct Current circuit. (cf., Formulae, Section 3.4.5.c.) 8. Extraction at both electrodes in an Alternating Current circuit (cf., Formulae, Section 3.4.5.c.).
9. The applied voltage potential during electrolyses may be excessive and far greater than the reduction potential of an element to be reduced, because electro-extraction is for the purpose of efficient recovery, not cosmetic purposes.
The heat, so generated by a relatively high voltage and high amperage, can be used to condense the electrolyte and accelerate electrolysis, to evaporate water for re-use, to heat buildings, even air-conditioning - by the use of heat pumps.
3.2.2. Explanatory Notes.
1. To prevent the re-introduction of undesirable interfering base metals at the positively charged electrode, the positively charged electrode must be absolutely inert (e.g., Pt or Rh). [Note: A positively charged gold electrode is not inert and will decompose, even, in formic acid.]
2. The negatively charged electrode may be a base metal, such as copper, or any other metal, whichever may have the most advantageous characteristics in subsequent refining procedures.
3. The positively charged electrode can readily serve as an indicator of completion.
When no additional deposits occur on this electrode, precious metal Electro-Extraction by electrolysis may be deemed to be complete.
4. But the above feature does not apply to Desirable Metals like copper and zinc, for their oxides re-dissolve in acidic and alkali solutions and, therefore, do not accumulate, or precipitate at the positively charged electrode.
5. If elements, like copper and zinc are accumulating metallically at a negatively charged electrode, and re-dissolve in an acidic or alkali solution, they will reduce, at least in part, any element, which has a reduction potential, that is higher than the reduction potential of copper and zinc (e.g., Ag, Au, Pt, et. al.). Therefore in some cases, it may be advisable to do Electro-Extraction by electrolysis in a neutral solution, a weak acidic, or in basic solution, in whichever the extracted metal does not re-dissolve.
6. In consideration of the above, it becomes apparent that Electra-Extraction by electrolysis can advantageously be applied by means of an Alternating Current electric circuit, which in addition to Electro-Extraction by electrolysis utilizes extraction of metals also by ion exchange. (An explanation of which would be too complicated to include in this disclosure. cf., Section 4.2.2.) 7. When the source of Desirable Metals is ore several metals are involved, and the resulting electro-deposits are co-deposits of various Desirable Metals.
3.3Ø Cautionary Notes On Testing And Rinsing Precipitates And Extracts.
3.3.1. Testing.
When extracts of Desirable Metals, their oxides, and hydroxides, particularly the Platinum Group Metals, are fused (heat > 1100 C), they transform to an ionic liquid. Liquid ions combine with other liquid ions and form an acid-like solution of metals and metal oxides, in which ionic components combine according to the laws governing ion exchange. Thus extremely complex and refractory anhydrous molecules are formed, which may not re-dissolve in an aqueous solution of acids. If gold and Platinum Group Elements, are jointly melted in such circumstances, particularly if oxygen is present, an acidic interaction will cause intermetallic and intermolecular bonding of ions, and will obscure virtually everything - even gold. Thus collective extracts, especially if the Platinum Group Metals are included, cannot be tested accurately by any method, which requires heat and firing, especially in air/oxygen (e.g., Fire Assay Method).
3.3.2. Rinsing.
When extracts of Desirable Metals, their oxides, and hydroxides, are rinsed in acid, they should never be rinsed in hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acids, for in the preceding procedures nitric acid was employed. Whenever nitric acid is employed, there will always be a residue of nitrate salts.
When nitrate salts are treated with hydrochloric and/or sulfuric acids, according to the laws on ion exchange, nitrates form nitric acid, chlorides and sulfates. Thus, when an extract, that contains nitrates, is rinsed with hydrochloric or sulfuric acids, rinsing is not "rinsing" but effectively re-dissolution in Aqua Regia.
3.4Ø Formulae, Essential To This Disclosure: Formation And Decomposition Of Hydroxy Acids.
Symbols Used In Equations Below.
Au* may represent any Desirable Metals.
Fe* may represent any base metal.
HOH represents Intermolecular Water.
[E.g., Platinic chloride is not merely PtCI4r but Pt(HOHxCl)4i where the size of number "x" is contingent on the availability of water. When Pt(HOHxCl)4 is heated beyond the boiling point of HCl (117 C), the complex decomposes, beginning at its weakest ionic link (i.e., Pt(HO\HCI)4) as 4 HCI4 ' and Pt(OH)4y, which decomposes as R02,, and 2 H20"-]
3.4.1. Generic Formula (not balanced):
(Base metal simple salts) + Fe*[Au*(HOHCI)4]3+ NH4OH -{in H2SO4, HCI, HN03at pH <6}4 (Base metal simple hydroxides)J, + H2O + (NH4)2SO4 + NH4CI + NH4NO3 +
Fe*[Au*(HOHCI)4]3 aqueous 3.4.2. Formation Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid By The Addition Of Aqueous Ammonium To A
Solution Of Complex Salts Of Strong Acids:
Fe*(Au*HOH)(CI4)3 + 12 NH4OH 4 Fe*(OH)34. + 12 NH4CI + 3 [Au*HOHx(OH)3) =
H(AU*HOHx_ i(OH)4)]
3.4.3. Formation Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid By The Addition Of Formic Acid To A Complex Of Semi-Aqueous Flocculent Ammines (e.g., Platinum Group Elements):
[PGE(NH3)2(OH)4 = PGE(NH3H/OH)2(OH)41 + 2 HHOHXCOOH 4 2 NH4HOHX_4COOH +
H2PGE(HOHOH)6 3.4.4. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (Activated by exposure to microwaves - an alternating electromagnetic force):
H(AU("O"OH)4) + microwaves - 0 (cf., Section 2.4.2Ø) H2(Rh("O"/OH)6) + microwaves -4 [H2Rh(H0\"OH)6 = 8 H2O + Rh(OH)4yoiive green]
3.4.5.a. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (First half reaction, activated at a negatively charged electrode):
2 H(AU*"O"x_1(OH)4) + 6 e 4 2x H2O + 2 Au*,,, + [6 (OH)- = 3 H202 + 6 e-)]
3.4.5.b. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (Second half reaction, activated at the positively charged electrode):
2 H(AU*"0"x_1(OH)4) + [3 H202 + 6 e-] 4 2x H2O + Au*203y + 134 02 + 6 H2O
3.4.5.c. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (Combined reactions, collectively resulting at positively and negatively charged electrodes):
4 H(AU*HOHx_1(OH)4) 4 4x H2O + 2 Au*4,, + Au*203y + 1%2 02 + 6 H2O
4Ø THE BASIS FOR THIS DISCLOSURE: RECORD OF SPECIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL
PROCEDURES.
4.1Ø Gold Electro-Extraction, By Exposure to Microwaves, And By Electrolysis.
On a small nugget of placer gold, the inventor implemented the above procedures, using a positively charged platinum electrode, a negatively charged copper electrode, and D.C. voltage potential of 5 to 30 volts. (cf., Applicable Sections of 2Ø, and Section 3Ø) 4.1.1. Attempted Gold Electro-Extraction, By Exposure To Microwaves.
When the inventor dissolved gold, and exposed its Hydroxy Acid solution to microwaves, even after repeated exposures, no gold hydroxide precipitated. (cf., Section 4.1Ø) 4.1.2. Gold Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Negatively Charged Electrode.
The solution (cf., Section 4.1.1.) produced, at a negatively charged copper electrode, a powdery black deposit. Next, the inventor scraped the deposit off the electrode, rinsed said deposit in mild nitric acid, with water, and with a trace of aqueous potassium hydroxide. He dried, and fused the residue by the heat of an oxy-propane torch, which formed microscopic spheres, encapsulated by a layer of a ferric-looking substance. Breaking the capsules, rinsing with nitric acid and water revealed clearly recognizable spheres of gold.
4.1.3. Gold Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Positively Charged Electrode.
The solution (cf., Section 4.1.1.) produced at the positively charged platinum electrode, a powdery brownish deposit, which, when excessive, flaked off and settled in the electrolyte. The inventor continued the electrolytic process until most of the electrolyte's water content had evaporated by the heat so generated. Next, the inventor isolated the precipitates from the solution of the electrolyte. He rinsed them in water, nitric acid, water, with a trace of aqueous potassium hydroxide, and dried them on a hot plate. Microscopic examination of the dried substance clearly indicated the presence of gold. The inventor could not fuse the substance, for when he attempted to scrape the residue off a glass plate, it exploded. (cf., Section 3.1.3.) 4.2Ø Rhodium Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves And Electrolyses.
On a small amount of commercial rhodium plating solution, the inventor implemented the above procedures. (cf., Applicable Sections of 2Ø and 3Ø) 4.2.1. Rhodium Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves.
Upon exposing the solution to microwaves of a residential-type microwave oven, the original yellow solution immediately changed to an olive green solution and the produced the olive-green precipitate of rhodium IV hydroxide.
4.2.2. Various Experiments With Commercial Rhodium Plating Solution.
When the inventor used a portion of said plating solution, an inert platinum positively charged electrode, and a copper negatively charged electrode, he successfully plated metallic rhodium on to a negatively charged electrode. When the inventor used the residual solution of 4.2.1., an inert platinum positively charged electrode, and a copper negatively charged electrode, the process, described in Section 3.2.2.3., indicated that no residual rhodium remained in said residual solution.
When the inventor used a portion of commercial plating solution, a copper positively charged electrode, and a copper negatively charged electrode, he could not plate metallic rhodium; instead he produced a slime-like precipitate, which was enriched with copper. But when the inventor repeated the previous experiment with iron electrodes and reversed the polarity of the D.C.
voltage power supply every few seconds, he successfully plated scales of metallic rhodium on to both iron electrodes.
4.3Ø Silver Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves And By Electrolysis.
The inventor dissolved a small amount of pure silver in nitric acid, and neutralized the solution with aqueous ammonium (cf., Applicable Sections of 2Ø, and 3Ø) 4.3.1. Exposure Of Silver, In Solution Of Ammonium, To Microwaves.
Upon exposure to microwaves of a residential-type microwave oven, the aqueous ammonium solution of silver, did not decompose and did not precipitate any silver (cf., Section 3.1Ø, and Explanatory Note 3.1.2.).
4.3.2. Silver Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis. (cf., Section 3.2Ø) The inventor used the filtered residual solution of Section 4.3.1., an inert platinum positively charged electrode, a copper negatively charged electrode, and D.C. voltage potential of approximately 15 volts. At the negatively charged electrode, loose sponge-like silver deposited, part of which the inventor was able to fuse to verify that the deposit was in fact silver. At the positively charged electrode a grey precipitate of silver oxide formed, part of which almost immediately re-dissolved in the aqueous ammonium. When with formic acid, the inventor re-acidified the aqueous ammonium solution of silver, the residual silver in the solution precipitated as a murky white cloud.
4.4Ø Processing Ore, Originating From An Abandoned Gold/Copper Mine.
On 100 grams of ore, the inventor implemented the above described procedures (cf., Section 2Ø).
Then he applied the above-stated principles of Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves (Section 3.1Ø), and Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis (cf., Section 3.2Ø).
4.4.1. Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves.
The inventor prepared a slightly alkali solution of Hydroxy Acids and re-acidified this solution slightly with formic acid. He exposed this solution for ten minutes to the microwaves of a residential-type microwave oven. The greenish yellow solution did not change in color, and produced traces of whitish hydroxide-like precipitates, which when separated from the liquid, dried, heated on a hot plate, and rinsed, was a brownish powder, insoluble even in sulfuric acid. It fused with difficulties in an oxy-propane torch; the fused residue appeared to be a non-metallic white/grey glassy substance. (Conclusion: No PGE were in solution.) 4.4.2Ø Electro-Extraction By Electrolyses.
The inventor used the filtered residual solution of Section 4.4.1., an inert platinum positively charged electrode, a copper negatively charged electrode, and D.C. voltage potential of approximately 15 volts.
4.4.2.1. Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Negatively Charged Electrode.
The Negatively Charged Electrode produced excessive amounts of coppery colored powder co-deposit, most of which could be rinsed off by a strong flow of water. Directly on the metal of the negatively charged electrode was a firm crusty layer of black. After accumulating significant deposits, the inventor removed said deposits on said electrode, treated the deposits with nitric acid, fused the residual black powder, treated it with nitric acid, and rinsed it. The residue consisted of blackish metallic particles, and clearly identifiable gold.
4.4.2.2. Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Positively Charged Electrode.
The Positively Charged Electrode produced a brownish deposit, most of which did not adhere to the electrode, precipitated into the electrolyte and settled. After concluding the process, the inventor decanted the liquid, rinsed the residue with nitric acid, with water, and fused the residual black powder, which he again rinsed with nitric acid. The fused residue, like that of Section 4.4.2.1., consisted of blackish metallic particles, and clearly identifiable gold.
4.5Ø Electro-Extraction Of Platinum Group Metals By Electrolysis.
The inventor implemented the above described procedures on ore, which indicated the presence of platinum (cf., Section 2Ø, and 3.2Ø). In consideration of platinum, the inventor prolonged the leaching process. He separated the solution from gangue, neutralized the solution with ammonium, re-acidified it slightly with formic acid, and separated the liquid from solids. The inventor used this liquid as electrolyte, in an electrolytic cell, comprising a 6 to 10 volt, a D.C.
power supply, a platinum positively charged electrode, and a negatively charged gold electrode.
The positively charged platinum electrode was covered with dark brown oxides.
The deposit on the negatively charged electrode was a flat grey, metallic, powder-like coating, which was inert and insoluble in nitric acid - so unique that the inventor photographed it.
The heat, so generated by a relatively high voltage and high amperage, can be used to condense the electrolyte and accelerate electrolysis, to evaporate water for re-use, to heat buildings, even air-conditioning - by the use of heat pumps.
3.2.2. Explanatory Notes.
1. To prevent the re-introduction of undesirable interfering base metals at the positively charged electrode, the positively charged electrode must be absolutely inert (e.g., Pt or Rh). [Note: A positively charged gold electrode is not inert and will decompose, even, in formic acid.]
2. The negatively charged electrode may be a base metal, such as copper, or any other metal, whichever may have the most advantageous characteristics in subsequent refining procedures.
3. The positively charged electrode can readily serve as an indicator of completion.
When no additional deposits occur on this electrode, precious metal Electro-Extraction by electrolysis may be deemed to be complete.
4. But the above feature does not apply to Desirable Metals like copper and zinc, for their oxides re-dissolve in acidic and alkali solutions and, therefore, do not accumulate, or precipitate at the positively charged electrode.
5. If elements, like copper and zinc are accumulating metallically at a negatively charged electrode, and re-dissolve in an acidic or alkali solution, they will reduce, at least in part, any element, which has a reduction potential, that is higher than the reduction potential of copper and zinc (e.g., Ag, Au, Pt, et. al.). Therefore in some cases, it may be advisable to do Electro-Extraction by electrolysis in a neutral solution, a weak acidic, or in basic solution, in whichever the extracted metal does not re-dissolve.
6. In consideration of the above, it becomes apparent that Electra-Extraction by electrolysis can advantageously be applied by means of an Alternating Current electric circuit, which in addition to Electro-Extraction by electrolysis utilizes extraction of metals also by ion exchange. (An explanation of which would be too complicated to include in this disclosure. cf., Section 4.2.2.) 7. When the source of Desirable Metals is ore several metals are involved, and the resulting electro-deposits are co-deposits of various Desirable Metals.
3.3Ø Cautionary Notes On Testing And Rinsing Precipitates And Extracts.
3.3.1. Testing.
When extracts of Desirable Metals, their oxides, and hydroxides, particularly the Platinum Group Metals, are fused (heat > 1100 C), they transform to an ionic liquid. Liquid ions combine with other liquid ions and form an acid-like solution of metals and metal oxides, in which ionic components combine according to the laws governing ion exchange. Thus extremely complex and refractory anhydrous molecules are formed, which may not re-dissolve in an aqueous solution of acids. If gold and Platinum Group Elements, are jointly melted in such circumstances, particularly if oxygen is present, an acidic interaction will cause intermetallic and intermolecular bonding of ions, and will obscure virtually everything - even gold. Thus collective extracts, especially if the Platinum Group Metals are included, cannot be tested accurately by any method, which requires heat and firing, especially in air/oxygen (e.g., Fire Assay Method).
3.3.2. Rinsing.
When extracts of Desirable Metals, their oxides, and hydroxides, are rinsed in acid, they should never be rinsed in hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acids, for in the preceding procedures nitric acid was employed. Whenever nitric acid is employed, there will always be a residue of nitrate salts.
When nitrate salts are treated with hydrochloric and/or sulfuric acids, according to the laws on ion exchange, nitrates form nitric acid, chlorides and sulfates. Thus, when an extract, that contains nitrates, is rinsed with hydrochloric or sulfuric acids, rinsing is not "rinsing" but effectively re-dissolution in Aqua Regia.
3.4Ø Formulae, Essential To This Disclosure: Formation And Decomposition Of Hydroxy Acids.
Symbols Used In Equations Below.
Au* may represent any Desirable Metals.
Fe* may represent any base metal.
HOH represents Intermolecular Water.
[E.g., Platinic chloride is not merely PtCI4r but Pt(HOHxCl)4i where the size of number "x" is contingent on the availability of water. When Pt(HOHxCl)4 is heated beyond the boiling point of HCl (117 C), the complex decomposes, beginning at its weakest ionic link (i.e., Pt(HO\HCI)4) as 4 HCI4 ' and Pt(OH)4y, which decomposes as R02,, and 2 H20"-]
3.4.1. Generic Formula (not balanced):
(Base metal simple salts) + Fe*[Au*(HOHCI)4]3+ NH4OH -{in H2SO4, HCI, HN03at pH <6}4 (Base metal simple hydroxides)J, + H2O + (NH4)2SO4 + NH4CI + NH4NO3 +
Fe*[Au*(HOHCI)4]3 aqueous 3.4.2. Formation Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid By The Addition Of Aqueous Ammonium To A
Solution Of Complex Salts Of Strong Acids:
Fe*(Au*HOH)(CI4)3 + 12 NH4OH 4 Fe*(OH)34. + 12 NH4CI + 3 [Au*HOHx(OH)3) =
H(AU*HOHx_ i(OH)4)]
3.4.3. Formation Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid By The Addition Of Formic Acid To A Complex Of Semi-Aqueous Flocculent Ammines (e.g., Platinum Group Elements):
[PGE(NH3)2(OH)4 = PGE(NH3H/OH)2(OH)41 + 2 HHOHXCOOH 4 2 NH4HOHX_4COOH +
H2PGE(HOHOH)6 3.4.4. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (Activated by exposure to microwaves - an alternating electromagnetic force):
H(AU("O"OH)4) + microwaves - 0 (cf., Section 2.4.2Ø) H2(Rh("O"/OH)6) + microwaves -4 [H2Rh(H0\"OH)6 = 8 H2O + Rh(OH)4yoiive green]
3.4.5.a. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (First half reaction, activated at a negatively charged electrode):
2 H(AU*"O"x_1(OH)4) + 6 e 4 2x H2O + 2 Au*,,, + [6 (OH)- = 3 H202 + 6 e-)]
3.4.5.b. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (Second half reaction, activated at the positively charged electrode):
2 H(AU*"0"x_1(OH)4) + [3 H202 + 6 e-] 4 2x H2O + Au*203y + 134 02 + 6 H2O
3.4.5.c. Decomposition Of An Aqueous Hydroxy Acid (Combined reactions, collectively resulting at positively and negatively charged electrodes):
4 H(AU*HOHx_1(OH)4) 4 4x H2O + 2 Au*4,, + Au*203y + 1%2 02 + 6 H2O
4Ø THE BASIS FOR THIS DISCLOSURE: RECORD OF SPECIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL
PROCEDURES.
4.1Ø Gold Electro-Extraction, By Exposure to Microwaves, And By Electrolysis.
On a small nugget of placer gold, the inventor implemented the above procedures, using a positively charged platinum electrode, a negatively charged copper electrode, and D.C. voltage potential of 5 to 30 volts. (cf., Applicable Sections of 2Ø, and Section 3Ø) 4.1.1. Attempted Gold Electro-Extraction, By Exposure To Microwaves.
When the inventor dissolved gold, and exposed its Hydroxy Acid solution to microwaves, even after repeated exposures, no gold hydroxide precipitated. (cf., Section 4.1Ø) 4.1.2. Gold Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Negatively Charged Electrode.
The solution (cf., Section 4.1.1.) produced, at a negatively charged copper electrode, a powdery black deposit. Next, the inventor scraped the deposit off the electrode, rinsed said deposit in mild nitric acid, with water, and with a trace of aqueous potassium hydroxide. He dried, and fused the residue by the heat of an oxy-propane torch, which formed microscopic spheres, encapsulated by a layer of a ferric-looking substance. Breaking the capsules, rinsing with nitric acid and water revealed clearly recognizable spheres of gold.
4.1.3. Gold Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Positively Charged Electrode.
The solution (cf., Section 4.1.1.) produced at the positively charged platinum electrode, a powdery brownish deposit, which, when excessive, flaked off and settled in the electrolyte. The inventor continued the electrolytic process until most of the electrolyte's water content had evaporated by the heat so generated. Next, the inventor isolated the precipitates from the solution of the electrolyte. He rinsed them in water, nitric acid, water, with a trace of aqueous potassium hydroxide, and dried them on a hot plate. Microscopic examination of the dried substance clearly indicated the presence of gold. The inventor could not fuse the substance, for when he attempted to scrape the residue off a glass plate, it exploded. (cf., Section 3.1.3.) 4.2Ø Rhodium Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves And Electrolyses.
On a small amount of commercial rhodium plating solution, the inventor implemented the above procedures. (cf., Applicable Sections of 2Ø and 3Ø) 4.2.1. Rhodium Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves.
Upon exposing the solution to microwaves of a residential-type microwave oven, the original yellow solution immediately changed to an olive green solution and the produced the olive-green precipitate of rhodium IV hydroxide.
4.2.2. Various Experiments With Commercial Rhodium Plating Solution.
When the inventor used a portion of said plating solution, an inert platinum positively charged electrode, and a copper negatively charged electrode, he successfully plated metallic rhodium on to a negatively charged electrode. When the inventor used the residual solution of 4.2.1., an inert platinum positively charged electrode, and a copper negatively charged electrode, the process, described in Section 3.2.2.3., indicated that no residual rhodium remained in said residual solution.
When the inventor used a portion of commercial plating solution, a copper positively charged electrode, and a copper negatively charged electrode, he could not plate metallic rhodium; instead he produced a slime-like precipitate, which was enriched with copper. But when the inventor repeated the previous experiment with iron electrodes and reversed the polarity of the D.C.
voltage power supply every few seconds, he successfully plated scales of metallic rhodium on to both iron electrodes.
4.3Ø Silver Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves And By Electrolysis.
The inventor dissolved a small amount of pure silver in nitric acid, and neutralized the solution with aqueous ammonium (cf., Applicable Sections of 2Ø, and 3Ø) 4.3.1. Exposure Of Silver, In Solution Of Ammonium, To Microwaves.
Upon exposure to microwaves of a residential-type microwave oven, the aqueous ammonium solution of silver, did not decompose and did not precipitate any silver (cf., Section 3.1Ø, and Explanatory Note 3.1.2.).
4.3.2. Silver Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis. (cf., Section 3.2Ø) The inventor used the filtered residual solution of Section 4.3.1., an inert platinum positively charged electrode, a copper negatively charged electrode, and D.C. voltage potential of approximately 15 volts. At the negatively charged electrode, loose sponge-like silver deposited, part of which the inventor was able to fuse to verify that the deposit was in fact silver. At the positively charged electrode a grey precipitate of silver oxide formed, part of which almost immediately re-dissolved in the aqueous ammonium. When with formic acid, the inventor re-acidified the aqueous ammonium solution of silver, the residual silver in the solution precipitated as a murky white cloud.
4.4Ø Processing Ore, Originating From An Abandoned Gold/Copper Mine.
On 100 grams of ore, the inventor implemented the above described procedures (cf., Section 2Ø).
Then he applied the above-stated principles of Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves (Section 3.1Ø), and Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis (cf., Section 3.2Ø).
4.4.1. Electro-Extraction By Exposure To Microwaves.
The inventor prepared a slightly alkali solution of Hydroxy Acids and re-acidified this solution slightly with formic acid. He exposed this solution for ten minutes to the microwaves of a residential-type microwave oven. The greenish yellow solution did not change in color, and produced traces of whitish hydroxide-like precipitates, which when separated from the liquid, dried, heated on a hot plate, and rinsed, was a brownish powder, insoluble even in sulfuric acid. It fused with difficulties in an oxy-propane torch; the fused residue appeared to be a non-metallic white/grey glassy substance. (Conclusion: No PGE were in solution.) 4.4.2Ø Electro-Extraction By Electrolyses.
The inventor used the filtered residual solution of Section 4.4.1., an inert platinum positively charged electrode, a copper negatively charged electrode, and D.C. voltage potential of approximately 15 volts.
4.4.2.1. Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Negatively Charged Electrode.
The Negatively Charged Electrode produced excessive amounts of coppery colored powder co-deposit, most of which could be rinsed off by a strong flow of water. Directly on the metal of the negatively charged electrode was a firm crusty layer of black. After accumulating significant deposits, the inventor removed said deposits on said electrode, treated the deposits with nitric acid, fused the residual black powder, treated it with nitric acid, and rinsed it. The residue consisted of blackish metallic particles, and clearly identifiable gold.
4.4.2.2. Electro-Extraction By Electrolysis At A Positively Charged Electrode.
The Positively Charged Electrode produced a brownish deposit, most of which did not adhere to the electrode, precipitated into the electrolyte and settled. After concluding the process, the inventor decanted the liquid, rinsed the residue with nitric acid, with water, and fused the residual black powder, which he again rinsed with nitric acid. The fused residue, like that of Section 4.4.2.1., consisted of blackish metallic particles, and clearly identifiable gold.
4.5Ø Electro-Extraction Of Platinum Group Metals By Electrolysis.
The inventor implemented the above described procedures on ore, which indicated the presence of platinum (cf., Section 2Ø, and 3.2Ø). In consideration of platinum, the inventor prolonged the leaching process. He separated the solution from gangue, neutralized the solution with ammonium, re-acidified it slightly with formic acid, and separated the liquid from solids. The inventor used this liquid as electrolyte, in an electrolytic cell, comprising a 6 to 10 volt, a D.C.
power supply, a platinum positively charged electrode, and a negatively charged gold electrode.
The positively charged platinum electrode was covered with dark brown oxides.
The deposit on the negatively charged electrode was a flat grey, metallic, powder-like coating, which was inert and insoluble in nitric acid - so unique that the inventor photographed it.
Claims (25)
1 THE EMBODIMENTS AND THE PROCESS OF THE INVENTION, IN WHICH AN EXCLUSIVE
PROPERTY
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED, ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An Electro-Extraction process, comprising sequential chemical procedures of removing a precious and desirable metal ion from complex anions of strong in-organic acids, by repositioning said metal ion as the integral component in an anion of a newly-formed aqueous inorganic hydroxy acid complex, as which said hydroxy acid anion is chemically separated from gangue, base metal hydroxides, and intermetallic complex salts, and from which said anion is extracted a metal ion as a reduced metal, an metal oxide, or a metal hydroxide by at least one of two procedures, comprising an exposure of said hydroxy acid anion complex to an alternating electromagnetic force, or exposing said anion to a voltage potential between a positively and a negatively charged electrode.
PROPERTY
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED, ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An Electro-Extraction process, comprising sequential chemical procedures of removing a precious and desirable metal ion from complex anions of strong in-organic acids, by repositioning said metal ion as the integral component in an anion of a newly-formed aqueous inorganic hydroxy acid complex, as which said hydroxy acid anion is chemically separated from gangue, base metal hydroxides, and intermetallic complex salts, and from which said anion is extracted a metal ion as a reduced metal, an metal oxide, or a metal hydroxide by at least one of two procedures, comprising an exposure of said hydroxy acid anion complex to an alternating electromagnetic force, or exposing said anion to a voltage potential between a positively and a negatively charged electrode.
2. A process, as defined in claim 1, in which a precious and desirable metal ion is removed from a complex anion of strong in-organic acids, and said metal ion is repositioned as the integral component in an anion of a newly formed aqueous inorganic hydroxy acid complex, by progressively adding aqueous ammonium to a solution of said strong in-organic acids, until all acids are neutralized.
3. A process, as defined in claim 1, and 2, in which a neutral solution, that contains an hydroxy acid complex, is changed to a basic solution by the addition of aqueous ammonium.
4. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, and 3, in which a basic solution, that contains an hydroxy acid complex, is changed to an acidic solution by the addition of an acid.
5. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, and 3, in which a basic solution, that contains an hydroxy acid complex, is changed to an acidic solution by the addition of formic acid.
6. A process, as defined in claim 1, and 2, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from a neutral solution by exposing said solution to an alternating electromagnetic force.
7. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, and 3, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from a basic solution by exposing said solution to an alternating electromagnetic force.
8. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, and 4, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from an acidic solution by exposing said solution to an alternating electromagnetic force.
9. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, and 5, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from an acidic solution by exposing said solution to an alternating electromagnetic force.
10. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, and 6, in which an alternating electromagnetic force is a microwave.
11. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, and 7, in which an alternating electromagnetic force is a microwave.
12. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8, in which an alternating electromagnetic force is a microwave.
13. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, 5, and 9, in which an alternating electromagnetic force is a microwave.
14. A process, as defined in claim 1, and 2, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from a neutral aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a Direct Current voltage potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
15. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, and 3, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from a basic aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a Direct Current voltage potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
16. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, and 4, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from an acidic aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a Direct Current voltage potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
17. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, and 5, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from an acidic aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a voltage Direct Current potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
18. A process, as defined in claim 1, and 2, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from a neutral aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a Alternating Current voltage potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
19. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, and 3, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from a basic aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a Alternating Current voltage potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
20. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, and 4, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from an acidic aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a Alternating Current voltage potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
21. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, and 5, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted from an acidic aqueous solution, that contains a soluble hydroxy acid complex, by exposing said solution to a positively and a negatively charged electrode, at a voltage Alternating Current potential, which is greater than the reduction potential of an element so extracted.
22. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21, in which a precious and desirable metal is extracted by ion exchange.
23. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22, in which a precious metal is gold, silver, platinum, palladium, iridium, and rhodium.
24. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22, in which a desirable metal is copper, zinc, chromium, cobalt, and nickel.
25. A process, as defined in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22, in which a precious and desirable metal is a transition metal, which has a chemical bond strength with oxygen, that is weaker than the chemical bond strength between hydrogen and oxygen.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2729239A CA2729239A1 (en) | 2011-01-25 | 2011-01-25 | Electro-extraction of desirable metals from hydroxy acids, by microwaves and electrolysis |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2729239A CA2729239A1 (en) | 2011-01-25 | 2011-01-25 | Electro-extraction of desirable metals from hydroxy acids, by microwaves and electrolysis |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2729239A1 true CA2729239A1 (en) | 2012-07-25 |
Family
ID=46578573
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2729239A Abandoned CA2729239A1 (en) | 2011-01-25 | 2011-01-25 | Electro-extraction of desirable metals from hydroxy acids, by microwaves and electrolysis |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2729239A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP2907899A1 (en) * | 2014-05-30 | 2015-08-19 | Nicolae Costache | Method and reactor for recovering metal and nonmetal elements from objects comprising metal and organic compounds |
-
2011
- 2011-01-25 CA CA2729239A patent/CA2729239A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP2907899A1 (en) * | 2014-05-30 | 2015-08-19 | Nicolae Costache | Method and reactor for recovering metal and nonmetal elements from objects comprising metal and organic compounds |
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