Solvent Extraction / Electrowinning

Solvent Extraction

The Solvent Extraction section consists of four extractors covered (30’ x 70’) plus two strippers covered (30’ x 70’) the current solvent extraction configuration is a 1+1+1 circuit with two parallel circuits. As of 6-23-03 Remediation work is underway to bring the SX up to compliance standard. Some of the solvent extractors are being re-positioned; the old PVC piping is being up graded to HDPE; an open cement collection launder is being sawed into the primary slab.

Electro-Winning

There are two sections of the Electro-winning section under one building (36’ x 205’ under roof). The “original” section contains 58 polymer concrete cells with 23 anodes and 22 cathode blanks each. The original section, “mothballed” needs to be upgraded before use in a full “production” sense. Upgrades shall include concrete repairs and positive drainage and containment to the Raffinate pond. All plumbing shall be upgraded with HDPE. Wooded walkways shall be replaced with FRP grating.

The “new” section is currently used, containing 16 polymer concrete cells with 37 anodes and 36 cathode blanks each. The anode and cathode blanks are interchangeable.