E-LIX - Hydrometallurgical solution for the extraction of copper, zinc, cobalt, nickel, lead and precious metals

The E-LIX technology is a true revolution in the metal extraction industry, since it allows obtaining high purity metals without the need to use aggressive pressure and temperature conditions, eliminating environmentally aggressive smelting from the production process. This process is very environmentally friendly, with a high component of CO2 emissions savings.

Lain Tech has developed a hydrometallurgical solution for the extraction of copper, zinc, cobalt, nickel, lead and precious metals. This novel process for leaching refractory minerals is mainly intended for the treatment of primary sulfides such as chalcopyrite, sphalerite, arsenopyrite and galena, among others.
It works by means of hydrometallurgical solutions aimed at the efficient and sustainable extraction of these refractory metals, especially in primary sulfides, proving to be highly effective by achieving recoveries above 90% for metals such as copper and zinc.
The E-LIX™ process is a green technology that generates no emissions and has a negative carbon footprint, as well as minimal water consumption. This process is highly automated, with intelligent algorithms that adapt in real time to the operation.
E-LIX™ is a novel and patented process for the leaching of primary minerals, categorically less aggressive than conventional processes, both hydrometallurgical (for secondary minerals) and pyrometallurgical (for primary minerals). E-LIX™ operates under non-aggressive physicochemical conditions (room temperature, atmospheric pressure and mild chemical conditions), which is a drastic change versus the harsh operating conditions of existing metal transformation technologies The E-LIX™ process has been consolidated after more than 10 years of metallurgical laboratory test work, followed by two pilot plants and an industrial validation plant. E-LIX™ process and facilities design contemplates the application of the most avant-garde and cutting-edge technologies. The E-LIX™ process itself constitutes a novel and innovative patented technology for the leaching of primary minerals.

Basic information about the technique

Production data

Associated main production process(es) and product(s): Copper Cathodes

Production data: 10,000 tons per year

Cross media effects

• High consumption of energy/raw materials
• Use of hazardous substances