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magnesium oxide for hydrometallurgy
Enhancing Metal Recovery and Environmental Sustainability through Acid Neutralization
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magnesium oxide for hydrometallurgy
Hydrometallurgical-grade magnesium oxide is a specialized form of MgO engineered for metal extraction, pH adjustment, impurity removal, and wastewater treatment in hydrometallurgical processes
Magnesium oxide for hydrometallurgy can effectively promote dissolution, selective extraction, improve solution environment, optimize precipitation and separation, and improve extraction rate and purity in wet cobalt extraction. Its process has low energy consumption and significant environmental benefits, achieving a win-win situation in economic and environmental benefits.
Product Specifications
| Item | Unit | CHI-02 | CHI-05 | CHI-06 |
| MgO Content (900°C/2H) | % | ≥96.0 | ≥96.0 | ≥96.0 |
| CaO Content | % | ≤1.5 | ≤2.0 | ≤2.5 |
| Fe Content | % | ≤0.1 | ≤0.15 | ≤0.15 |
| Carbonates | % | ≤0.3 | ≤0.3 | ≤0.2 |
| Insoluble Acids | % | ≤0.2 | ≤0.2 | ≤1.0 |
| 325 Mesh Test | % | ≥99 | ≥99 | ≥99 |
| Bulk Density | g/ml | 0.3-0.6 | 0.4-0.6 | 0.4-0.6 |
| Combustion Loss | % | ≤5.0 | ≤5.0 | ≤5.0 |
Application
Nickel/Cobalt Extraction and Recovery
Acidic wastewater neutralization
Metal precipitation agent
Eco-friendly metallurgical reagent
Active Magnesium Oxide for Efficient Cobalt Extraction
Active magnesium oxide (MgO) is a highly reactive compound with wide industrial applications. In hydrometallurgy, a method using aqueous solutions for metal extraction, MgO offers significant advantages, particularly in cobalt extraction.
Hydrometallurgy is favored for its low energy consumption and reduced environmental impact. Cobalt, a vital metal in batteries and other industries, benefits from improved extraction techniques using MgO.
Key Benefits of Active MgO in Cobalt Hydrometallurgy:
Enhanced Cobalt Dissolution & Selectivity: MgO acts as a catalyst, promoting the efficient release of cobalt ions into solution while minimizing the dissolution of impurities.
Optimized Solution Conditions: MgO helps maintain the ideal pH for cobalt extraction and interacts with ions to improve the overall solution chemistry.
Improved Separation: MgO influences precipitate formation, leading to more efficient and controllable cobalt separation through precipitation, filtration, and washing.
Advantages over other bases
Cost-effectiveness: MgO is often cheaper than other bases like sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or lime (Ca(OH)2). However, the actual cost-effectiveness depends on local availability and purity requirements.
Lower solubility than NaOH: This means that the addition of MgO doesn’t lead to a rapid, uncontrolled spike in pH, making it easier to control the neutralization process. Over-shooting the target pH with a strong base like NaOH can re-dissolve precipitates or create other problems.
Higher metal hydroxide density: The metal hydroxides precipitated using MgO tend to be denser and settle faster than those formed with NaOH, leading to more efficient solid-liquid separation. This improves the clarity of the solution for further steps.
Less scaling: MgO is less prone to forming hard scales on equipment compared to lime (Ca(OH)2).
Important Considerations
Purity of MgO: The purity of the MgO used is important. Impurities can interfere with the process or contaminate the final product.
Particle Size: The particle size of the MgO affects its reactivity and dissolution rate. Finer particles generally react faster.
Reaction Kinetics: The reaction of MgO with acid is slower than that of NaOH. This needs to be considered in process design, requiring sufficient residence time for complete neutralization.
Slurry Handling: MgO is relatively insoluble, so it’s often added as a slurry. Proper mixing and handling of the slurry are essential to ensure uniform neutralization.
Calcination Temperature: How the MgO was produced (specifically the calcination temperature of the original magnesite or dolomite) greatly affects its reactivity. “Light-burned” or “caustic-calcined” magnesia (calcined at lower temperatures) is much more reactive than “dead-burned” magnesia (calcined at very high temperatures), which is almost inert. Hydrometallurgy typically requires the more reactive forms.
Premium Magnesium Oxide for your project!
At CHIMAG, we understand the critical role of precisely tailored solutions in hydrometallurgy. We are your trusted partner in magnesium oxide (MgO) engineering, offering unmatched customization and precision to match your specific process requirements perfectly. Our commitment is to provide unparalleled technical expertise and MgO solutions that ensure optimal efficiency and successful outcomes.
Precisely customize product features
According to your production process requirements, we provide magnesium oxide products with different particle sizes, activity, and purity levels, which are precisely adapted to key links such as precipitation, neutralization, and leaching.
Flexible product forms
Instant powder (quick reaction), slow-release particles (uniform dissolution), and shaped filter materials (fixed bed equipment) are available to adapt to the working modes of various production equipment.
Intelligent adjustment of reaction efficiency
Through formula optimization, magnesium oxide can be used in different application scenarios: precise control of pH value, efficient removal of heavy metals, stable promotion of crystallization reaction, and effective saving of raw material consumption.
Stable quality and easy-to-store
Precisely control activity during production to ensure that the product remains stable during transportation and storage, and exerts the expected effect when used (active shelf life is up to 12 months)
Why choose CHIMAG Magnesium Oxide?
Experienced Team: Benefit from the expertise of our team members, each with years of experience in magnesium oxide production and applications in hydrometallurgy. We understand the nuances of different processes and can provide expert consultation.
Competitive Pricing: As primary manufacturers, we guarantee the best price and consistent quality compared to distributors or resellers. Cut out the middleman and optimize your cost efficiency.
Comprehensive Technical Support: Our team provides comprehensive technical support, including product recommendations, application advice, and troubleshooting assistance to ensure optimal performance of our MgO in your process.
Reliable and Consistent Supply: We understand the importance of a stable supply chain. With our robust production capabilities and rigorous quality control, we ensure a reliable and consistent supply of MgO to meet your ongoing needs.
Guaranteed Satisfaction: We are committed to quality and transparent communication to streamline your experience with us. We strive for complete customer satisfaction with our products and services.
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Magnesium Oxide Buying Guide for Hydrometallurgy
Magnesium oxide (MgO) powder plays a crucial role in a wide array of hydrometallurgical applications, ranging from pH control in leaching processes to heavy metal removal from wastewater and the neutralization of acidic mine drainage. With different grades and particle sizes available, selecting the optimal MgO product for your specific hydrometallurgical needs is paramount.
If you are considering importing or purchasing magnesium oxide powder for your hydrometallurgy operations, or for distribution within your local market, this comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with the knowledge necessary to make a smart and well-informed decision.
Magnesium oxide (MgO) is a key reagent employed in hydrometallurgical processes due to its ability to participate in replacement reactions, effectively extracting and separating valuable metals like cobalt from complex solutions. Its relatively low cost and environmentally benign nature make it a desirable alternative to other extraction methods.
MgO functions by participating in a replacement reaction within a cobalt-containing solution. This reaction leverages the higher reactivity of magnesium to reduce cobalt ions (Co²⁺) to their metallic form (Co), while MgO is transformed into magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂).
The core chemical equation illustrating this process is:
Co²⁺ + MgO + H₂O → Co + Mg(OH)₂
This reaction allows for the selective precipitation of cobalt metal, facilitating its separation from the remaining solution.
Cobalt Extraction from Ores: MgO is widely used to extract cobalt from cobalt-containing ores through hydrometallurgical leaching and subsequent precipitation.
Waste Lithium-ion Battery Recycling: As the demand for batteries grows, so does the need for recycling. MgO plays a crucial role in the selective recovery of cobalt from spent lithium-ion batteries, contributing to a circular economy.
The effectiveness of MgO in hydrometallurgy is greatly influenced by its properties. The following characteristics are highly desirable:
High Purity: High-purity MgO ensures minimal interference from impurities, leading to a cleaner and more efficient replacement reaction.
Uniform Particle Size: Consistent particle size promotes uniform reactivity, preventing localized over-reactions or incomplete metal precipitation.
High Reaction Activity: A high surface area and porous structure enhance the reactivity of MgO, leading to a faster and more complete cobalt recovery.
The following steps outline a typical procedure for utilizing MgO in cobalt extraction:
- Dissolution (or Suspension): Introduce MgO into the cobalt-containing solution (leachate). Ensure the MgO is well dispersed, either through dissolution or suspension, depending on the specific process parameters.
- Agitation/Stirring: Thoroughly stir the mixture to promote intimate contact between the MgO particles and the cobalt ions in solution. Adequate mixing ensures a uniform reaction rate throughout the vessel.
- Reaction Time and Temperature Control: Allow sufficient time for the replacement reaction to occur. Optimal temperature may need to be determined experimentally, as it can influence the reaction kinetics and overall efficiency.
- Filtration/Separation: Once the reaction is complete, filter the mixture to separate the precipitated metallic cobalt from the remaining solution containing magnesium hydroxide and other byproducts.
- Washing (Optional): Wash the filtered cobalt metal to remove any residual impurities or adsorbed magnesium hydroxide.
- Drying and Purification (Optional): Depending on the desired purity and application, the collected cobalt metal may undergo further drying and purification processes.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety when handling MgO. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including dust masks, gloves, and eye protection, to minimize the risk of inhalation or skin contact.
Dust Control: Minimize dust generation during handling and storage to prevent respiratory irritation. Work in well-ventilated areas.
Proper Storage: Store MgO in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated environment. Avoid exposure to moisture, as it can lead to caking or degradation.
Waste Disposal: Dispose of any waste materials containing MgO in accordance with local environmental regulations.
Specialized MgO for hydrometallurgical applications is available from numerous chemical companies both domestically and internationally. Key factors influencing the price of MgO include:
Purity: Higher purity grades typically command a premium price.
Particle Size Distribution: Uniform and optimized particle size ranges may also increase the cost.
Quantity Purchased: Bulk purchases often result in lower unit prices.
Research and comparison of different suppliers are recommended to secure the most cost-effective and suitable product for specific application needs.
Environmentally Responsible: The reaction products, such as magnesium hydroxide, can be recycled or utilized in other applications, contributing to a more sustainable process and minimizing environmental impact.
Safety Compliance: Ensure that the MgO used complies with relevant safety standards and regulations. Implement proper handling procedures to minimize risks associated with dust exposure and chemical reactions.
The field of hydrometallurgy is continuously evolving. Future research and development efforts are focused on:
Improving MgO Activity and Selectivity: Developing MgO with higher surface areas, optimized pore structures, and surface modifications to enhance reactivity and selectively target specific metal ions.
Expanding Applications: Exploring the use of MgO in the extraction and recovery of other valuable metals beyond cobalt, such as nickel, lithium, and rare earth elements.
Optimizing Process Parameters: Investigating and optimizing reaction conditions (temperature, pH, MgO dosage) to maximize metal recovery and minimize reagent consumption.
Innovative MgO Production Methods: Developing more sustainable and cost-effective methods for producing high-quality MgO from various sources, including seawater and industrial byproducts.
