Jan Tjeerd Smit

Title: Innovations of Jan Tjeerd Smit in Copper Recovery

Introduction

Jan Tjeerd Smit is a notable inventor based in St. Albert, Canada. He has made significant contributions to the field of metallurgy, particularly in the recovery of copper from sulphidic feeds. With a total of two patents to his name, Smit's work focuses on innovative processes that enhance the efficiency of copper extraction.

Latest Patents

Smit's latest patents include "Integrated pressure oxidative leach of copper sulphidic feed with copper heap leach" and "Low acidity, low solids pressure oxidative leaching of sulphidic feeds." The first patent describes a process that integrates pressure leaching and heap leaching to recover copper from sulphidic feed containing iron, arsenic, and copper. This method involves pressure oxidizing an aqueous feed slurry to create a liquid phase rich in free sulphuric acid and aqueous copper sulphate, while precipitating arsenic as solid iron arsenic compounds. The treated slurry is then separated, allowing for the recovery of copper and the generation of a solution that can be further processed in a copper heap leach.

The second patent outlines a process for recovering copper and silver from sulphidic feeds by maintaining a low solids content in the pressure vessel. This approach ensures that the free acid level remains below 30 g/L, while sufficient heat is provided to maintain a temperature above 200°C. Copper metal can be recovered from the liquid phase, and silver may be extracted from the solids through cyanide leaching, eliminating the need for a jarosite destruction step.

Career Highlights

Jan Tjeerd Smit is currently employed at Sherritt International Corporation, where he continues to develop innovative solutions for metal recovery. His expertise in pressure oxidation and leaching processes has positioned him as a key figure in the field of metallurgy.

Collaborations

Smit has collaborated with several professionals in his field, including Preston Carl Holloway and Aysan Molaei. Their combined efforts contribute to advancing the technologies used in metal recovery processes.

Conclusion

Jan Tjeerd Smit's contributions to the field of metallurgy through his innovative patents demonstrate his commitment to improving copper recovery methods. His work not only enhances efficiency but also addresses environmental concerns associated with metal extraction.