Hydrothermal sulfuric acid leaching of sulfide–rich zinc tailings: simultaneous metal recovery and environmental stabilization: a case study of Chaabet El Hamra (Algeria)
April 27, 2026
 |
Read full article |
| Article Title: | Hydrothermal sulfuric acid leaching of sulfide–rich zinc tailings: simultaneous metal recovery and environmental stabilization: a case study of Chaabet El Hamra (Algeria) |
| Authors: | Chouafa M., Trirat T., Ali Rachedi S., Batouche T., Benabbas K., Bouabdallah S., Benhalima H., Cheikhaoui Y., Rouaiguia I. |
| Affiliation: | Environmental Research Center (CRE), 23000 Annaba, Algeria Mines, Metallurgy and Materials Laboratory L3M, National Higher School of Technology and Engineering, 23005 Annaba, Algeria Universty of Bejaia faculty of technology mining and geology depatement, Bejaia–Algeria |
| Abstract: | Flotation residues from the chaabet elhamra plant pose significant environmental and economic challenges due to their high content of oxidizable primary sulfides, including pyrite, galena, and chalcopyrite. Exposure to oxygen and moisture triggers sulfide oxidation, generating acid mine drainage (AMD) and mobilizing toxic heavy metals. Geochemical characterization reveals an average zinc grade of 1.23%, alongside 8.75% pyrite, 7 % elemental sulfur, and minor associated phases, confirming their strong AMD potential. To mitigate environmental hazards and recover valuable metals, pressurized acid leaching was performed using H₂SO₄ in an autoclave (20–25 bars, 180–200 °C). This hydrothermal treatment enhances selective zinc dissolution and partially transforms sulfide phases, thereby improving extraction efficiency while suppressing long–term pollution risks. Subsequent selective precipitation yielded high recoveries: ~90% for iron oxides, 88% for copper and zinc, 80% for lead, 68% for magnesium, and 90% for sodium carbonate. These results demonstrate that integrated pressurized leaching and precipitation constitutes an effective strategy for the sustainable valorization of sulfide–bearing tailings, simultaneously minimizing their environmental footprint and recovering secondary resources. |
| Keywords: | acid leaching, zinc recovery, acid mine drainage, sulfide oxidation, significant environmental, desulfurization. |
| *Correspondence: | Chouafa Mohamed, Environmental Research Center (CRE), 23000 Annaba, Algeria, email: chouafad@gmail.com |
About The Author
