Method and apparatus for electrowinning copper using the ferrous/ferric anode reaction and a flow-through anode

摘要: The present invention relates, generally, to a method and apparatus for electrowinning metals, more particularly copper using the ferrous/ferric anode reaction flow-through anode, such as, example, dimensionally stable carbon, carbon composite, metal-graphite, or stainless steel anode. In general, use of anode—coupled with an effective electrolyte circulation system—enables efficient cost-effective operation system employing at total cell voltage less than about 1.5 V current densities greater 26 Amps per square foot (about 280 A/m2), reduces acid mist generation. Furthermore, permits low ferrous iron concentrations optimized flow rates as compared prior art systems while producing high quality, commercially saleable product (i.e., LME Grade A cathode equivalent), which is advantageous.