Simulation of Copper Electrorefining Using a ۲D Computational Model for Enhanced Process Optimization

Copper electrorefining is a critical industrial process for purifying impure copper into high-purity metal. Understanding the intricate interplay of operational parameters and their impact on process efficiency is crucial for optimizing the process. This research presents a ۲D computational model of a copper electrorefining cell, developed using COMSOL Multiphysics Software. By employing the Tertiary Current Distribution module and Nernst-Planck equations, this model enables a simultaneous analysis of electrochemical phenomena and electrode geometric evolution. Simulation results reveal a pronounced influence of applied current density and evolving electrode geometry on the concentration distribution of copper ions near the cathode surface. The insights gained from this study can be instrumental in optimizing operational conditions and designing industrial electrorefining cells.

کلیدواژه ها:

copper electrorefining ، electrochemical modeling ، mass transport ، Nernst-Planck equation