Sustainable nickel recovery via chlorination roasting from primary and secondary resources

Abstract

With the depletion of high-grade nickel sulfide ores, the need for efficient nickel recovery from low-grade and secondary resources has grown significantly. Chlorination roasting has emerged as a promising technology, offering high metal recovery rates, excellent reaction selectivity, reduced energy consumption, and environmental sustainability. This review systematically examines the fundamental principles and recent advancements in chlorination roasting for nickel extraction, achieving recovery rates exceeding 95%. The review also delves into the reaction mechanisms, process optimization, and potential for industrial-scale application. Future research directions are proposed, including the development of eco-friendly chlorination agents, improvements in energy efficiency, enhanced reactor designs, advanced waste gas treatment technologies, and the integration of sustainable production with environmental protection. As a resource recovery technology, chlorination roasting holds great potential for promoting nickel recycling and resource conservation in modern industry.