Electrodeposition of Metals in Fluidized Bed Electrodes: Part II . An Experimental Investigation of Copper Electrodeposition at High Current Density

Abstract

A laboratory scale cell equipped with a fluidized cathode was employed to electrodeposit copper from acidified copper sulfate solution. Copper concentrations in the electrolyte were in the 0-20 g/liter range while the electrolyte was acidified with approximately 100 g/liter of sulfuric acid. Superficial current densities were in the range 200-600 A/ft**2. Current efficiency power consumption per pound of copper deposited and operability were determined as a function of copper concentration, particle size, bed expansion, superficial current density, and acid concentration. The results were compared with the predictions of mathemtical models.