Optimized Hydrometallurgical Extraction of Molybdenum via Mechanoactivation and Nitric–Sulfuric Leaching

Bagdaulet Kenzhaliyev, Almagul Ultarakova, Nina Lokhova, Arailym Mukangaliyeva, Kaisar Kassymzhanov

2025

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DOI 10.3390/pr13051486
Data confidence 70 medium
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Abstract

This study explores the intensification of molybdenite concentrate processing through a synergistic hydrometallurgical approach using sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and their combination to enhance leaching efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Molybdenum, a strategic metal widely used in advanced engineering and catalytic systems, presents extraction challenges due to the refractory nature of molybdenite (MoS2). The experimental approach incorporated oxygen sparging and mechanoactivation to improve dissolution kinetics and molybdenum availability. A central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to develop a predictive model for optimizing the leaching parameters. Acid concentration, temperature, and leaching time were systematically varied, allowing for the identification of statistically significant factor interactions and optimal operating conditions. The model demonstrated strong predictive capability with high adjusted and predicted R2 values, validating its suitability for process optimization. Optimal leaching conditions were identified as 50 g/dm3 HNO3 + 200 g/dm3 H2SO4, a temperature of 95 °C, a leaching time of 240 min, and a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:6, resulting in a maximum molybdenum extraction efficiency of 72.6%. This performance was attributed to enhanced oxidative decomposition and stable complexation of molybdenum species. This study provides a scalable and environmentally conscious framework for molybdenum extraction, with implications for sustainable metallurgy and industrial applications.