Abstract: The present invention is a method to remove metals from solutions by precipitating the metals and adding cellulosic fiber to the solution. The precipitates attach to the cellulosic fibers to form products. The products may be removed from the solution by gravity separation techniques or by filtration. The removed products may be dewatered and incinerated. The method provides a simple and effective technique for removing low concentrations of metals from high volume solution streams.

Abstract: The present invention is a method to remove metals from solutions by precipitating the metals and adding cellulosic fiber to the solution. The precipitates attach to the cellulosic fibers to form products. The products may be removed from the solution by gravity separation techniques or by filtration. The removed products may be dewatered and incinerated. The method provides a simple and effective technique for removing low concentrations of metals from high volume solution streams.

Abstract: Discussed is a process for recovering metals and metal-containing products, such as a nickel sulfate product, from aqueous feed solutions comprising two or more dissolved metals. A selected metal is isolated and in a purified form in an aqueous raffinate phase from solvent extraction of nonselected metals using an organic phase containing a salt of an organic acid and the selected metal. Aqueous feed solution may result from leaching operations, including leaching of nickel-containing catalyst, such as catalyst used in hydrogenation of vegetable oils.

Abstract: A process for selectively recovering dissolved heavy metals from a solution is disclosed that involves selectively reacting a xanthate with such dissolved heavy metals. Selective reaction of a xanthate with selected dissolved heavy metals is accomplished by conducting the reaction under conditions such that only some of the heavy metals react with the xanthate, to the exclusion of reaction with other dissolved heavy metals. Selectivity of the reaction is particularly influenced by the pH at which the reaction occurs. Typically, the reaction should occur at a pH below about 4.0. Xanthates, once reacted, can be separated from the heavy metal xanthate reaction product and recycled for use within the process. Purified heavy metal product can be produced if desired.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a process for the separation and recovery of Rhodium values from aqueous mineral acid solutions also containing Iridium and/or Ruthenium which comprises contacting the metal bearing aqueous solution with a water immiscible organic solvent containing an organically substituted quaternary amine salt to extract Iridium and Ruthenium into the solvent phase leaving Rhodium in the aqueous raffinate. The loaded organic phase is stripped of Iridium and Ruthenium in two sequential steps by contacting it first with an alkaline solution then redissolving the resulting precipitate in an acidified reducing solution.

Abstract: A process for the separation and selective recovery of platinum and palladium values from an acidic aqueous medium which comprises contacting the medium with a mixed organic extraction reagent comprising a water immiscible organic solvent having dissolved therein an organically substituted secondary amine compound capable of forming complexes of platinum and palladium that are preferentially soluble in the organic solvent and whereby the contacting results in creation of an organic extract phase and an aqueous raffinate phase. After phase separation, palladium is selectively recovered by contacting the organic phase with an aqueous solution of an acidified reducing agent. Platinum is separately recovered by contacting the organic phase with an aqueous alkaline solution. The process may be employed as a method for concentrating solutions of platinum or palladium.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a process for the separation and recovery of Rhodium values from aqueous mineral acid solutions also containing Iridium and/or Ruthenium which comprises contacting the metal bearing aqueous solution with a water immiscible organic solvent containing an organically substituted quaternary amine salt to extract Iridium and Ruthenium into the solvent phase leaving Rhodium in the aqueous raffinate. The loaded organic phase is stripped of Iridium and Ruthenium in two sequential steps by contacting it first with an alkaline solution then redissolving the resulting precipitate in an acidified reducing solution.