Research on the Mechanism of Ion Exchange Based on Thermodynamic Equilibrium

Abstract

Referencing ion exchange applied in the extraction of ion-adsorption minerals, a mathematical model based on thermodynamic equilibrium has been researched and established to reveal and represent the chemical reaction between minerals and the leaching solution. Meanwhile, a Python-based numerical solver has been developed and programmed to solve the equations of the established model in order to achieve computational efficiency and obtain an accurate solution. Based on the simulation and computation with the established mathematical model, the effects of leaching solution concentration and mineral grade distribution on the extraction of ion-adsorption minerals can be evaluated, validating the set value of 20 g/L for the initial leaching solution concentration and the extraction rate of above 90% for the cut-off grade. Furthermore, the established mathematical model can be integrated into the simulation system for the overall multi-field extraction of ion-adsorption minerals, illustrating the relationship between extracted metal ion concentration in the aqueous phase over time and providing theoretical support for the engineering project.