Reclamation of iron and copper from BCL slag in Botswana.

High-grade copper ores have been depleted over the years, making it a challenge in the mining industry. This investigation focused on a methodology to recover iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) from a copper/nickel slag obtained from the Bamangwato Concession Limited (BCL) mine in Botswana. In this modified flotation approach, the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used in conjunction with the Central Composite Design (CCD) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to obtain the best optimal flotation conditions for the recovery of iron and copper.

Characterization of copper slag for beneficiation of iron and copper.

Before disposal of any metallurgical waste to the environment, it is the responsibility of mining institutes to adhere to the permissible metal content limits. Base metals, especially iron and copper, have adverse effects of reducing the soil pH and excessive concentrations of these in the disposed waste may result in soil pollution and toxicity, with adverse effects on plant growth and animal health. Copper slag is a metallurgical waste that is disposed by way of stockpiling at designated dump sites within a mining site.