MINERAL PROCESSING: Patent awarded to Pro-Or for PGE process

MONTREAL – Pro-Or has been awarded a Canadian patent for an innovative process for the recovery of platinum group elements directly from ore or concentrate.

The advantage of the process is its low cost and high recovery, according to Pro-Or. Complicated flotation, smelting and autoclaving are eliminated. The process converts raw materials (spent catalytic converters) into highly soluble chlorinated complex into a weakly acidic solution with a low energy intake. The process uses industry standard equipment and chemicals readily available for the reaction. The complete industrial process comprises steps by which the majority of reagents used can be recycled, reused and/or sold. The method includes steps to ensure the removal and safe disposal of residues.

Further explanation of the process is posted at Pro-Or.com.