Utilization of polymeric binders to agglomerate oxidized copper ore

Permeability reduction is a major challenge in heap leaching, primarily caused by the accumulation of fines that move with the leaching agent, leading to the formation of dead zones and channeling within the heap. In the Aria copper beneficiation plant, the 0–2 mm fraction with a copper grade of 1.4% undergoes pre-separation prior to heap loading without further processing. This study investigated the potential of using the agglomeration method to improve permeability in the case of using the 0–2 mm fraction of ore. Mineral compounds, such as sodium silicate and calcium sulfate, and non-ionic, cationic, and anionic polymer compounds, were used in the agglomeration process. The strength of interparticle bonding was evaluated by measuring the fine migration percentage (FMP) in the soak test. The results revealed that agglomerates produced using non-ionic compounds had the highest bonding strength, with an FMP of 3.89%, the lowest of all the compounds tested. This enhanced bonding strength was attributed to the combined influence of hydrogen bonding forces and van der Waals forces.