ELIMINATION DU CUIVRE PAR DES PROCEDES DE PRECIPITATION CHIMIQUE ET D'ADSORPTION

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to present tests results of copper removal by processes of lime chemical precipitation and adsorption on bentonitic clays. For increasing lime amounts, copper removal efficiencies seem excellent because of the precipitation of copper hydroxide. Adsorption tests showed that the bentonite of Maghnia was more powerful than that of Mostaghanem. Copper fixing on clay is fast and is improved with the increase of the amounts of bentonites, pH and the initial content of copper. Several retention mechanisms could be competitive (ion exchange, complexation or precipitation).