Hydrometallurgy is the process of using aqueous solvent to dissolve or leach minerals from ores . In the SX / EW Process, the ore is leached with sulphuric Acid, then the copper is extracted from the acid leach with a solvent and the copper is subsequently electrolytically refined. Mineralogy is the key to applying SX / EW techniques, and the original ore mineralogy of a deposit determines the ultimate recovery from the leach process. The Hydrometallurgy Process allows for the recovery of copper from low grade copper oxide ores which, because of their chemical composition, are not suitable for concentration by floatation. The recovery of copper by the hydrometallurgical process of SX / EW occurs in a closed circuit recovery process where wastes and impurities are recycled and recovered. Transportation of material by pipeline makes handling easier and reduces risk of pollution. The greatest advantage of acid leaching & SX / EW recovery of copper is its low costs. SX / EW production of copper from low grade mineral is relatively low cost (because no heat transfer is required), which is a key factor for copper production to be economically viable.

The Hydrometallurgy Process for production of Copper Cathode consists of the following broad steps:

• Leaching
• Filteration
• Purification
• Electrowining
• Copper Solvent Extraction Process

GARS is already engaged in production of Copper & Cobalt Hydroxide at DRC. As regards adoption of the EW - SX process, the company is having a technical team headed by General Manager Technical, GARS management have 20 years of experience in extracting Copper & Cobalt by the Hydrometallurgy & Electro wining process