The New Method to Separate Stannum and Copper in the Process of Refining Tin

Abstract

As the ancient metal, Sn is widely used in all aspects of human life. Nowadays, S, as the vulcanizing agent, is used in the process of refining tin to separate Cu and Sn. However, there are few reports about the other agent of removing copper from stannum. In this study, SnS, a new sulfiding agent to separate Cu and Sn, was investigated. During the process, SnS replaces the combination of Sn and Cu. The variables considered in the experimental study were reaction temperature, time and the ratio of reactants. The experimental data indicated under certain conditions, the removal rate of Cu reach 94.3%. At last, we studied the vacuum reaction of Cu2S and Sn, results indicated that under appropriate conditions, the Cu is detected. The SnS is formed. And after the vacuum reaction, the SnS could be used recycling. This work presented a promising technology for separating Cu from tin.

Recent advances of the thermodynamic behavior of tin species in aqueous solution

“…Though the analyzing for the position of Sn species in the φ-pH diagram, the operating conditions of the hydrometallurgy of were optimized [71,72]. Additionally, as shown in Figure 7, the φ-pH diagram for Sn/H2O system provides a theoretical guidance to the Sn electrorefining [73].…”