The evolution of Ga/In occurrence state and their dependence on jarosite during the precipitation enrichment for recovery of scattering metals and Cu from Zn leaching solution

In zinc hydrometallurgical plant, neutralizing precipitation and the subsequent dissolution are implemented to enrich scattering metals, Gallium (Ga) and Indium (In), and Cu from zinc leaching solution, facilitating further extraction and separation of Ga/In and others. The formation of jarosite presents both challenges and opportunities for Ga/In extraction, as Ga/In can substitute Fe within the jarosite structure. In this work, the evolution of the Ga/In occurrence state, especially its relationship with jarosite was investigated and the role of Fe/K/Pb was emphasized. Results show that jarosite formation is inevitable at pH 1–2, with K-jarosite forming kinetically faster than Pb-jarosite. By supplying sufficient K, precipitation rates reached 95.7 % for Ga and 98.1 % for In at pH 2 with little Cu/Ge loss. Eventually, a more appropriate and efficient flowsheet for recovery of scattering metals and Cu from zinc leaching solution is recommended, providing a practical framework comprehensive utilization in zinc hydrometallurgy.