Application of Mathematical Modeling on Copper Recovery Optimization of Oxide Ores

In this study, a mathematical modeling method was used to predict the optimum conditions of column leaching of copper oxide ore. Important parameters such as column height (m), particle sizes (m), acid rate (kg/ton) and leaching time (day) were studied and their impacts on copper recovery were investigated. Experiments were performed on samples with particle size distributions of 25.4 mm and 50.8 mm in six columns with the heights of 2 m, 4 m and 6 m. The results showed that the copper recovery has an inverse relation with column height and particle sizes, and direct relation with leaching time and acid rate. According to the results, the mathematical models based on the macro model predict the copper recovery based on operation conditions. The obtained values of determination coefficient (0.97), root mean square error (2.86) and relative error (0.089) testing datasets, showed the capability of the model in predicting the copper recovery.

Mathematical Modeling, Leaching, Copper oxide ore, Recovery