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Title: Analysis of four processing schemes for recovering metallic values from deepsea nodules

Journal Article · · Mater. Soc.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6424440
 [1]; ;
  1. Charles River Associates, Boston, MA

Engineering estimates of the cost of recovering metallic values from deepsea nodules are presented. Four major processing techniques (the pyrometallurgical, cuprion ammoniacal leach, hydrochloric acid leach, and high-temperature sulfuric acid leach processes) are analyzed in detail, including the treatment of process tailings and slags and waste treatment and disposal. The capital and operating costs are presented so that a comparison can be made between the processing methods where copper, nickel, and cobalt are recovered as well as the case where manganese is recovered in addition to the other three metals. The sensitivity of the estimates to the critical uncertainties is discussed. 27 references, 5 tables.

OSTI ID:
6424440
Journal Information:
Mater. Soc.; (United States), Vol. 5:2
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English