BASF and HydroGEOPHYSICS Join Forces to Enhance Efficiency in Copper Leach Extraction
- 07-Feb-2024 11:21 AM
- Journalist: Gabreilla Figueroa
BASF, a renowned global chemical company, has recently entered into an exclusive partnership with hydroGEOPHYSICS Inc (HGI), a full-service geophysical consulting firm providing geophysical solutions, focusing on the integration of their respective proficiencies in mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, and deep well injection techniques.
This collaborative venture is primarily geared towards optimizing copper extraction processes within the mining industry. It leverages HGI's advanced geophysical methodologies to pinpoint areas within heap leach operations characterized by suboptimal recovery rates. The strategic plan involves the meticulous design and implementation of a deep well injection program, incorporating BASF's cutting-edge LixTRA leach aid. The overarching objective is to effectuate a substantial enhancement in copper extraction efficiency.
HGI employs state-of-the-art geophysical technologies to meticulously characterize the structural components of heap leach pads. This comprehensive understanding facilitates the strategic design, operation, and continuous monitoring of targeted lixiviant injection wells, as elucidated by representatives from both companies. By augmenting this approach with the integration of BASF's LixTRA leach aid, a synergistic effect is achieved. The enhanced ore-lixiviant contact engendered by LixTRA culminates in heightened copper dissolution rates and correspondingly amplified metal recovery yields.
Preliminary findings derived from trials conducted at a customer's site have yielded promising results, showcasing a noteworthy 20% increase in copper recovery rates during the trial phase. Encouraged by these initial outcomes, further assessments are underway on a broader scale, with the aim of quantifying the tangible benefits of this collaborative initiative.
In the backdrop of burgeoning global copper demand projections, technological advancements assume paramount significance for the mining industry. The partnership between BASF and HGI epitomizes a proactive approach towards addressing this imperative. By harnessing HGI's specialized expertise to identify and remediate underperforming areas within heap leach operations, coupled with the strategic application of BASF's LixTRA reagent through injection programs, tangible advancements in copper recovery efficiency are being realized.
At the core of this endeavor lies a commitment to sustainability and safety, principles that resonate deeply within the mining industry. HGI's focus on enhancing copper recovery in a sustainable and safe manner aligns seamlessly with the broader industry ethos. Through the judicious application of HGI's expertise in pinpointing and enhancing copper recovery in underperforming areas within heap leach pads, in conjunction with the strategic utilization of BASF's LixTRA reagent, a substantial enhancement in copper recovery efficiency has been achieved.
In essence, the collaborative partnership between BASF and HGI heralds a new era of innovation and efficiency within the mining industry. By synergistically combining their specialized knowledge and cutting-edge technologies, the partnership endeavors to not only optimize copper extraction processes but also pave the way for sustainable and responsible mining practices in the years to come.