Copper Electrowinning: 2025 Global Survey of Tankhouse Operating Practice and Performance

This chapter provides an in-depth look at the global practices and performance of copper electrowinning in 2024, focusing on tankhouse operating practices and trends. The survey includes data from major copper producers across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and other regions, representing a significant portion of global copper cathode production. Key topics covered include tankhouse capacity utilization, electrolyte composition, and trends in operating conditions. The study reveals a reversal in the downward trend of tankhouse utilization and highlights promising developments in atmospheric leaching of primary sulfides. Additionally, it examines the variations in electrolyte compositions and impurity levels across different regions. The chapter concludes with insights into the future of copper electrowinning, emphasizing the need for technological advancements to meet growing demand.