Hydrometallurgical processing of chalcopyrite: a review of leaching techniques

Copper, an essential metal for the energy transition, is primarily obtained from chalcopyrite through hydro and pyrometallurgical methods. The risk and harmfulness of this process represent the lack of safety for the environment and humans, so it is necessary to explore efficient and respectful hydrometallurgical methods. In this review article, emphasis is placed on current processes such as oxidative leaching, bioleaching, and pressure leaching that have shown efficiency in overcoming the complicated chalcopyrite network. The process of oxidative leaching epitomizes benign conditions within leaching media; nevertheless, the introduction of oxidizing agents confers extensive advantages. Bioleaching is a non-aggressive method that has shown a gradual increase in the contribution of copper and has been explored from primary and secondary sources. Pressure leaching, effective and selective for copper obtaining, becomes commercially more viable with increased research investments. This research also provides important data for advancing future research.