The effect of cadmium ion on cobalt removal from zinc sulfate solution

The effects of cadmium concentration, temperature, time and copper concentration were investigated on cobalt removal from zinc sulfate solution by zinc dust. The results show a small amount of cadmium can increase the rate and extent of cobalt cementation. Residues after cementation were analyzed by electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA). Zn–Co and Zn–Cd alloys were found to enhance cobalt removal, whereas Zn–Cu and Cu–Cd alloys had an adverse effect on cobalt removal. To enhance cobalt removal, the Zn–Co or Zn–Cd alloys must form.