Abstract: A chemical process to leach copper concentrates in the presence of a concentrated solution of sulfates and chlorides. The process includes forming a high reactivity chemical paste containing a high concentration of ions in the liquid phase of the paste which react with copper ores and forms a series of soluble salts. The salts are extracted by a simple wash. Mixing equipment for handling high viscosity liquids is used. The total mixing time is about 5 minutes, after which the paste is poured into a rectangular mold, of several hundred meters per side, and is left to settle and breathe. During settling, water and sulfuric acid are added at intervals to replace that consumed by the reactions taking place during the aeration, until the reactions have virtually end. This treatment results in a dry, very resistant mass, containing the copper extracted in form of chlorine salts, and sulfate.

Abstract: A procedure to agglutinate ore concentrations, which can be of copper, on a gravel heap, to be leached on a non-flooded bed which comprises: artificially adhering the concentrate to the surface of a solid material base, which can be an artificial material, or a stony substance; the agglutinated material is stockpiled, forming a leaching pile; and is irrigated with a leaching solution containing at least Cl, Cu, and Fe ions.

Abstract: A procedure to agglutinate ore concentrations, which can be of copper, on a gravel heap, to be leached on a non-flooded bed which comprises: artificially adhering the concentrate to the surface of a solid material base, which can be an artificial material, or a stony substance; the agglutinated material is stockpiled, forming a leaching pile; and is irrigated with a leaching solution containing at least Cl, Cu, and Fe ions.