Thermodynamic behaviour of complex antimonite ore for electrodeposition of metal value

Abstract

This paper outlines the hydrometallurgical processing and the various possible approaches for the recovery of metallic antimony from its antimonite sulphide ore by electrolysis. Thermodynamic calculations have been made to find the optimum conditions for roasting and/or sulphate roasting of Wadi Abu Quraiya antimonite ore. The antimonite ore (Sb2S3) is roasted directly without concentration and large savings in reagent and chemical processes are expected. A suitable roasting temperature of 1200 K for 4 hours has been determined. Metallic antimony is cathodically electrodeposited with a high current efficiency at current densities of 350 to 500 A/m2 depending on the composition of leach liquor solutions. The results of the electron microscopy investigation confirmed by metal value data in the ASTM cards are in good agreement with the chemical analysis.