MODELING OF TIME-DEPENDENT PERFORMANCE CRITERIA IN A 3-DIMENSIONAL CELL SYSTEM DURING BATCH RECIRCULATION COPPER RECOVERY

A three-dimensional electrode cell with cross-flow of current and elec trolyte is modelled for galvanostatic and pseudopotentiostatic operati on. The model is based on the electrodeposition of copper from acidifi ed copper sulphate solution onto copper particles, with an initial con centration ensuring a diffusion-controlled process and operating in a batch recycle mode. Plug flow through the cell and perfect mixing of t he electrolyte in the reservoir are assumed. Based on the model, the b ehaviour of reacting ion concentration, current efficiency, cell volta ge, specific energy consumption and process time on selected independe nt variables is analysed for both galvanostatic and pseudopotentiostat ic modes of operation. From the results presented it is possible to id entify the optimal values of parameters for copper electrowinning.