FIELD: metallurgy.
SUBSTANCE: metal copper is leached from copper-bearing material in the sulphuric acid solutions with the addition of oxidising agent and application of industrial-frequency AC. The process is realised at percolation of the leaching sulphate solution through the copper-bearing material ply. Note here that copper content in resultant solution is controlled and maintained at the level of 20-30 g/l by the regulation of leaching solution consumption. The solution of hydrogen peroxide of 5-10% concentration is used as aforesaid oxidiser. Insoluble electrodes are dipped in the copper-bearing material ply and the reactor is sealed. Hydrogen peroxide solution feed is terminated at occurrence of overpressure inside the reactor and resumed at pressure drop. Note here that hydrogen oxide is fed directly to reaction zone separately from sulphate solution.
EFFECT: higher rate and degree of copper leaching.