Abstract

This paper presents analytical models describing heap leaching. The models are based on the Bernoulli equation, using constitutive equations for different levels, particles, and heaps, to identify the leaching times characteristic of each scale of operation. Since the models are simple in form they can be applied to analytical problems, optimization, scaling, and design. Also, the form in which these models are designed can be used for consideration of other levels or phenomena according to the problem at hand. Of the family of models, the one having first order kinetics has been applied in different situations. The model was first compared with experimental values obtained for different heights of the heap, producing satisfactory results. The model was then evaluated using values obtained from a variation of the model of Dixon and Hendrix, using different particle sizes and superficial velocities; the results obtained by Dixon and Hendrix were reproduced, including extrapolation and interpolation of the variables. © 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.