A gallium metal extraction device and an extraction method thereof

Abstract

The application provides a gallium extraction device and an extraction method thereof. It relates to the technical field of gallium extraction and comprises an extraction tank, a base and an extraction mechanism. A top plate is sealingly installed on the top of the extraction tank through bolts. An installation cover is installed on the top of the top plate through bolts. A feed pipe is installed on the inner wall of the installation cover. A recovery pipe is installed at the bottom end of the extraction tank. A suction pipe is fixed to the sidewall of the extraction tank. The extraction mechanism comprises an installation plate fixed to the inner wall of the extraction tank. The cleaning plate with a special shape is connected to the screw rod to rotate. The water phase can be discharged, and the clarified water phase can be treated synchronously. The interior of the extraction tank can be cleaned in detail. The clarified water phase can be treated in a centralized manner, the recovery pipe can be prevented from being blocked, the top plate does not need to be opened for water washing during subsequent extraction, the clarified impurities in the extraction tank can be effectively reduced, and the subsequent extraction effect and stability are ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of gallium extraction technology, and in particular to a metallic gallium extraction apparatus and extraction method thereof. Background Technology

[0002] Gallium is an important rare and dispersed metal widely used in semiconductors, optoelectronic materials, and new energy fields. Gallium typically exists as a byproduct in bauxite, zinc ore, and lithium-bearing silicate minerals (such as lepidolite and spodumene). Traditional gallium extraction methods mainly rely on the Bayer process for bauxite or zinc smelting byproducts, but these methods have low extraction efficiency for gallium from lithium-bearing silicate minerals. Therefore, developing an efficient and environmentally friendly technology for extracting gallium from lithium-bearing silicate minerals is of great significance, and solvent extraction is the most suitable method.

[0003] Gallium metal is found in bauxite, zinc ore, and lithium-containing silicate minerals (such as lepidolite and spodumene). In addition, gallium metal is also found in some waste electronic materials, such as semiconductors, optoelectronic materials, and new energy devices. Solvent extraction can extract gallium metal from all materials containing gallium metal, making it more compatible with raw materials. Gallium metal can be recovered from various types of waste ores and electronic waste.

[0004] However, in the existing technology, gallium metal will form a settling layer in the clarification section during the extraction process. The gallium-rich organic phase enters the back-extraction process, while the aqueous phase (extract liquid) is returned to leaching or discarded. The organic phase will be on top, and the aqueous phase will be on the bottom. The aqueous phase will contain extraction impurities. When the organic phase enters the back-extraction stage, the impurities in the aqueous phase will still exist in the extraction tank, which can easily affect subsequent extraction and block the pipeline.

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a gallium extraction apparatus and extraction method to solve the above-mentioned technical problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a gallium extraction device and extraction method, which solves the technical problems in related technologies, such as the inconvenience of treating the aqueous phase, the potential impact on subsequent extraction, and the easy clogging of pipelines.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides a gallium extraction device, including an extraction tank, a base, and an extraction mechanism;

[0008] The top of the extraction tank is sealed with a top plate by bolts, and the top of the top plate is fitted with a mounting cover by bolts. A feed pipe is installed on the inner wall of the mounting cover. A recovery pipe is installed at the bottom of the extraction tank, and a suction pipe is fixed on the side wall of the extraction tank.

[0009] The extraction mechanism includes a mounting plate fixed to the inner wall of the extraction tank. An extraction motor is bolted to the upper surface of the top plate and inside the mounting cover. The output shaft of the extraction motor is connected to a keyway via a keyway. A stirring rod is integrally provided at the bottom end of the keyway. A turntable is rotatably connected to the middle position inside the mounting plate. A connecting rod is fixed to the side wall of the turntable. A cleaning plate is fixed to the bottom end of the connecting rod. A ratchet is connected to the keyway via a keyway inside the turntable. Ratchets are rotatably installed inside the turntable on both sides of the ratchet via torsion springs.

[0010] A positioning plate is bolted inside the cleaning plate, and a screw is bolted inside the recycling pipe and located on one side of the positioning plate.

[0011] Preferably, the outlet end of the feed pipe passes through the interior of the mounting cover and extends to the interior of the top plate, and the extraction tank is mounted to the base by bolts around its perimeter.

[0012] Preferably, the ratchet and ratchet teeth mesh with each other, and the outer wall of the screw fits against the inner wall of the recycling tube.

[0013] Preferably, the outer wall of the long end of the cleaning plate is in contact with the inner wall of the extraction tank, and the cleaning plate is designed to be high on the outside and gradually lower on the inside.

[0014] Preferably, it also includes a high-temperature furnace, and the high-temperature furnace is externally equipped with a feeding mechanism and a protection mechanism;

[0015] The feeding mechanism includes a feeding cylinder fixed to the inner wall of a high-temperature furnace. A feeding motor is bolted to the outer wall of the high-temperature furnace. A spiral rod is connected to the inside of the feeding motor and the inside of the feeding cylinder via a keyway. A half gear is connected to the outer wall of the output shaft of the feeding motor and the side of the feeding cylinder via a keyway. A rack reciprocating ring is meshed on the outer wall of the half gear. A feeding frame is sealed and installed through the top of the feeding cylinder.

[0016] The protection mechanism includes a mounting bracket installed on the side wall of the high-temperature furnace and located on one side of the feeding motor. The side wall of the rack reciprocating ring is fixed with a sliding rod, and there are two sliding rods. The mounting bracket is equipped with two sleeves. Piston plates are slidably connected inside the two sleeves. A first one-way valve and a second one-way valve are installed inside the two sleeves and on one side of the piston plates. An air inlet pipe is installed at the inlet end of the first one-way valve.

[0017] Preferably, one end of the screw rod is rotatably connected to the axis of the feed cylinder via a bearing, and the axes of the two slide rods are fixedly connected to the axes of the two piston plates.

[0018] The outlets of the two second one-way valves are sealed to the high-temperature furnace and extraction tank via hoses.

[0019] Preferably, it also includes an exhaust mechanism, wherein a linkage disk is connected to the keyway on the outer wall of the key rod above the mounting plate, and a protrusion is fixed on the top of the linkage disk;

[0020] The exhaust mechanism includes an exhaust pipe fixed inside the top plate and the mounting cover. A limiting plate is fixed in the middle of the exhaust pipe. A lifting rod is slidably connected to the axis of the limiting plate. The limiting plate has through holes distributed in an equidistant ring inside. A guide wheel is installed at the bottom end of the lifting rod. A sealing plate is fixed at the top end of the lifting rod.

[0021] Preferably, the bottom of the guide wheel is in contact with the upper surface of the linkage plate, and the sealing plate adopts a tapered design that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

[0022] A method for extracting metallic gallium includes the following steps:

[0023] S1: Material pretreatment;

[0024] Lithium-containing silicate minerals (such as lepidolite and spodumene), not limited to minerals, but all materials containing gallium (such as waste electronic devices or recyclables containing gallium) can be crushed and ground to a fineness of 200 mesh or more to improve the reactivity.

[0025] S2: High-temperature roasting;

[0026] The finely ground material is mixed evenly with sulfates (such as sodium sulfate and potassium sulfate) at a mass ratio of 1:1–1:3.

[0027] The mixture was placed in a high-temperature furnace 2 and heated at 600–900°C for 1–3 hours. At high temperature, the sulfate decomposed to produce SO3, which reacted with gallium in the mineral to form gallium sulfate (Ga2(SO4)3).

[0028] Ga2O3 + 3SO3 → Ga2(SO4)3;

[0029] S3: Water immersion concentration;

[0030] The product after the high-temperature reaction is cooled to room temperature, and water is added for leaching. Gallium sulfate is easily soluble in water and enters the solution. The solution is concentrated by evaporation multiple times, while other insoluble impurities (such as SiO2) remain in the residue. The leaching solution and residue are separated by filtration to obtain a gallium-containing solution.

[0031] S4: Solvent extraction, the entire extraction process is carried out in an extraction tank;

[0032] Gallium was selectively extracted from gallium-containing solutions using organic extractants (such as Kelex 100 and LIX series); the extraction conditions were as follows:

[0033] pH value: 2–3

[0034] Extractant concentration: 5–10%

[0035] The ratio of organic phase to aqueous phase is 1:1–1:3.

[0036] The gallium-loaded organic phase was back-extracted with an acidic solution (such as 1–2 mol / L HCl) to obtain a high-concentration gallium-containing solution;

[0037] Mixing section: The leachate and organic phase (extractant + diluent) are mixed at a volume ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 for 5 to 10 minutes;

[0038] Clarification section: After settling and stratification, the gallium-rich organic phase enters the back-extraction process, while the aqueous phase (raffinate) is returned to leaching or discarded. The organic phase is drawn into the back-extraction process through the suction pipe, and the aqueous phase is discharged through the recovery pipe.

[0039] S5: Gallium recovery;

[0040] Metallic gallium is obtained by electrolysis or chemical reduction of high-concentration gallium-containing solutions.

[0041] Electrolysis conditions: Current density 200–500 A / m 2 Voltage 3–5V, temperature 25–50℃.

[0042] Compared with related technologies, the gallium extraction apparatus and extraction method provided by the present invention have the following advantages:

[0043] Beneficial effects:

[0044] The stirring rod agitates the aqueous phase to ensure its uniformity and prevent uneven distribution between the lower and upper layers. Simultaneously, the cleaning plate rotates at the bottom of the extraction tank along with the stirring rod. The cleaning plate has a vertical surface on one side and an inclined surface on the other. During the counterclockwise rotation, the inclined end of the cleaning plate scrapes the clarified aqueous phase from the bottom of the extraction tank onto the inclined surface. Furthermore, the outer side of the cleaning plate is higher, so the clarified phase remaining on the inclined surface of the cleaning plate will flow from high to low towards the recovery pipe. When the clarified aqueous phase is concentrated at the end of the recovery pipe, the counterclockwise rotating screw forms a spiral conveyor to quickly clean the clarified phase.

[0045] By using a specially designed cleaning plate to control the screw rotation, the aqueous phase is discharged while the clarified aqueous phase is processed simultaneously. This allows for thorough cleaning of the inside of the extraction tank. Furthermore, the centralized processing of the clarified material prevents blockage of the recovery pipe. As a result, the top plate of the extraction tank does not need to be opened for water washing during subsequent extractions. This effectively reduces the amount of clarified impurities in the extraction tank, ensuring the subsequent extraction effect and stability. Attached Figure Description

[0046] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the optimal structure for the present invention;

[0048] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the external structure of the extraction tank.

[0049] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the mounting cover.

[0050] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the extraction vessel.

[0051] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the extraction mechanism.

[0052] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the connection structure between the cleaning plate and the recycling pipe.

[0053] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The enlarged structural diagram at point A is shown below;

[0054] Figure 8 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the disassembled structure of the ratchet and turntable;

[0055] Figure 9 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the feeding mechanism and the protection mechanism.

[0056] Figure 10 for Figure 9 The enlarged structural diagram at point B is shown below;

[0057] Figure 11 for Figure 4 The diagram shows the internal structure of the exhaust mechanism.

[0058] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the exhaust mechanism's working process, where (a) is a schematic diagram of the exhaust mechanism in a blocked state, and (b) is a schematic diagram of the exhaust mechanism's exhaust state controlled by the cam contacting the guide wheel.

[0059] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0060] 1. Extraction tank;

[0061] 2. High-temperature furnace; 3. Recovery pipe; 4. Suction pipe; 5. Base.

[0062] 6. Extraction mechanism; 61. Extraction motor; 62. Mounting plate; 63. Key rod; 64. Turntable; 65. Connecting rod; 66. Cleaning plate; 67. Stirring rod; 68. Positioning plate; 69. Screw; 610. Ratchet; 611. Ratchet tooth.

[0063] 7. Feeding mechanism; 71. Feeding cylinder; 72. Feeding motor; 73. Half gear; 74. Screw rod; 75. Rack and pinion ring; 76. Feeding frame;

[0064] 8. Protective mechanism; 81. Mounting bracket; 82. Slide rod; 83. Sleeve; 84. First check valve; 85. Second check valve; 86. Inlet pipe; 87. Piston plate.

[0065] 9. Exhaust mechanism; 91. Exhaust pipe; 92. Limiting plate; 93. Through hole; 94. Lifting rod; 95. Sealing plate; 96. Guide wheel;

[0066] 10. Top plate; 11. Mounting cover; 12. Feed pipe;

[0067] 13. Linkage plate; 14. Bump. Detailed Implementation

[0068] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0069] This invention provides a gallium extraction apparatus and extraction method thereof.

[0070] First embodiment:

[0071] A method for extracting metallic gallium includes the following steps:

[0072] S1: Material pretreatment;

[0073] Lithium-containing silicate minerals (such as lepidolite and spodumene), not limited to minerals, but all materials containing gallium (such as waste electronic devices or recyclables containing gallium) can be crushed and ground to a fineness of 200 mesh or more to improve the reactivity.

[0074] S2: High-temperature roasting;

[0075] The finely ground material is mixed evenly with sulfates (such as sodium sulfate and potassium sulfate) at a mass ratio of 1:1–1:3.

[0076] The mixture was placed in a high-temperature furnace 2 and heated at 600–900°C for 1–3 hours. At high temperature, the sulfate decomposed to produce SO3, which reacted with gallium in the mineral to form gallium sulfate (Ga2(SO4)3).

[0077] Ga2O3 + 3SO3 → Ga2(SO4)3;

[0078] S3: Water immersion concentration;

[0079] The product after the high-temperature reaction is cooled to room temperature, and water is added for leaching. Gallium sulfate is easily soluble in water and enters the solution. The solution is concentrated by evaporation multiple times, while other insoluble impurities (such as SiO2) remain in the residue. The leaching solution and residue are separated by filtration to obtain a gallium-containing solution.

[0080] S4: Solvent extraction, the entire extraction process is carried out in extraction tank 1;

[0081] Gallium was selectively extracted from gallium-containing solutions using organic extractants (such as Kelex 100 and LIX series); the extraction conditions were as follows:

[0082] pH value: 2–3

[0083] Extractant concentration: 5–10%

[0084] The ratio of organic phase to aqueous phase is 1:1–1:3.

[0085] The gallium-loaded organic phase was back-extracted with an acidic solution (such as 1–2 mol / L HCl) to obtain a high-concentration gallium-containing solution;

[0086] Mixing section: The leachate and organic phase (extractant + diluent) are mixed at a volume ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 for 5 to 10 minutes;

[0087] Clarification section: After settling and stratification, the gallium-rich organic phase enters the back-extraction process, while the aqueous phase (raffinate) is returned to leaching or discarded. The organic phase is drawn into the back-extraction process through the suction pipe, and the aqueous phase is discharged through the recovery pipe.

[0088] S5: Gallium recovery;

[0089] Metallic gallium is obtained by electrolysis or chemical reduction of high-concentration gallium-containing solutions.

[0090] Electrolysis conditions: Current density 200–500 A / m 2 Voltage 3–5V, temperature 25–50℃.

[0091] In this embodiment: The above method involves heating a mixture of lithium-containing silicate minerals and sulfates (such as sodium sulfate and potassium sulfate) to convert gallium into water-soluble gallium sulfate (Ga2(SO4)3). Gallium is then efficiently extracted from the solution using solvent extraction. This method features simple process, high gallium recovery rate, and environmental friendliness, and is suitable for the comprehensive recovery of gallium resources from lithium-containing silicate minerals such as lepidolite and spodumene.

[0092] On the one hand, gallium resources can be recovered from various ores without the need to classify and process the ores. On the other hand, some small waste ores can also be directly crushed and processed without classification, which is conducive to resource integration and utilization.

[0093] On the other hand, this method can also be used for recycled materials such as semiconductors, optoelectronic materials and new energy devices. The gallium metal material inside can be recovered through solvent extraction. Therefore, this method has wide applicability and is conducive to resource integration and material recycling.

[0094] Second embodiment:

[0095] Please see Figures 1 to 8 A gallium extraction device includes an extraction tank 1, a base 5, and an extraction mechanism 6.

[0096] The top of the extraction tank 1 is sealed with a top plate 10 by bolts, and the top of the top plate 10 is fitted with an installation cover 11 by bolts. The inner wall of the installation cover 11 is fitted with a feed pipe 12. The bottom of the extraction tank 1 is fitted with a recovery pipe 3, and the side wall of the extraction tank 1 is fixed with a suction pipe 4.

[0097] The extraction mechanism 6 includes a mounting plate 62 fixed to the inner wall of the extraction tank 1. An extraction motor 61 is bolted to the upper surface of the top plate 10 and inside the mounting cover 11. The output shaft of the extraction motor 61 is keyway connected to a key rod 63. A stirring rod 67 is integrally provided at the bottom end of the key rod 63. A turntable 64 is rotatably connected to the middle position inside the mounting plate 62. A connecting rod 65 is fixed to the side wall of the turntable 64. A cleaning plate 66 is fixed to the bottom end of the connecting rod 65. A ratchet 610 is keyway connected to the outer wall of the key rod 63 and inside the turntable 64. Ratchets 611 are rotatably installed inside the turntable 64 and on both sides of the ratchet 610 via torsion springs.

[0098] A positioning plate 68 is bolted inside the cleaning plate 66, and a screw 69 is bolted inside the recycling pipe 3 and located on one side of the positioning plate 68.

[0099] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the first embodiment, S4: solvent extraction, the entire extraction process is carried out in an extraction tank;

[0100] The gallium-containing solution enters the extraction tank 1 through the feed pipe 12. During extraction, the mounting cover 11 needs to be sealed with the top plate 10, and the top plate 10 needs to be sealed with the extraction tank 1.

[0101] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 8 The extraction motor 61 can be started and rotated in both directions. When the extraction motor 61 rotates clockwise, the output shaft of the extraction motor 61 drives the key rod 63 and the bottom stirring rod 67 to rotate clockwise. The rotation of the stirring rod 67 mixes and stirs the gallium-containing solution, organic extractant and other solvents in the extraction tank 1 to ensure full extraction.

[0102] As the lever 63 rotates clockwise, it will also drive the ratchet 610 to rotate clockwise. The clockwise rotating ratchet 610 will rotate and avoid the ratchet teeth 611 on both sides. Therefore, the clockwise rotating ratchet 610 will not affect the ratchet teeth 611 and the turntable 64.

[0103] Please see Figure 4 After extraction, the extraction motor 61 needs to be stopped. With the extraction tank 1 stationary, the extracted organic phase and aqueous phase will form a clear stratification in the extraction tank 1. The organic phase will be discharged through the suction pipe 4 and enter the back-extraction stage in the first embodiment, while the aqueous phase will be discharged through the recovery pipe 3 for waste liquid treatment and recycling.

[0104] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 After all the organic phase is discharged, the user needs to start the extraction motor 61 to rotate counterclockwise. The extraction motor 61 can control the key rod 63 to make the ratchet 610 rotate counterclockwise. The counterclockwise rotation of the ratchet 610 will affect the ratchet teeth 611 on both sides, thereby controlling the entire turntable 64 to drive the connecting rod 65 to achieve the counterclockwise rotation of the cleaning plate 66 at the bottom of the extraction tank 1. At the same time, the stirring rod 67 will also rotate during the rotation of the ratchet 610.

[0105] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7 When the cleaning plate 66 rotates counterclockwise, the cleaning plate 66 will also drive the positioning plate 68 to control the screw 69 to rotate counterclockwise in the recycling tube 3.

[0106] The working principle of this embodiment is as follows: When the gallium-containing solution is completely introduced into the extraction tank 1, the extraction motor 61 is started to rotate clockwise. The output shaft of the extraction motor 61 drives the key rod 63 and the bottom stirring rod 67 to rotate clockwise. The rotation of the stirring rod 67 mixes and stirs the gallium-containing solution, organic extractant and other solvents in the extraction tank 1 to ensure full extraction.

[0107] After extraction, a clear layer is formed. The organic phase is first discharged through suction tube 4 and then enters the back-extraction stage.

[0108] Then, the extraction motor 61 is started and rotated counterclockwise. At this time, the cleaning plate 66, the stirring rod 67 and the screw 69 will all rotate counterclockwise. The stirring rod 67 agitates the water environment of the aqueous phase, and then the recovery pipe 3 extracts the aqueous phase from the extraction tank 1.

[0109] The outlet end of the feed pipe 12 passes through the interior of the mounting cover 11 and extends into the interior of the top plate 10. The extraction tank 1 is installed on the base 5 by bolts around its perimeter.

[0110] The ratchet 610 and the ratchet 611 mesh with each other, and the outer wall of the screw 69 is in contact with the inner wall of the recovery tube 3.

[0111] The outer wall of the long end of the cleaning plate 66 is in contact with the inner wall of the extraction tank 1. The cleaning plate 66 is designed to be high on the outside and gradually lower on the inside.

[0112] In this embodiment: When in the extraction stage, the clockwise rotation of the extraction motor 61 can only affect the rotation of the stirring rod 67 to fully extract. When the extraction is completed and a clear layer is formed, the organic phase can be discharged and back-extracted first. Then, by starting the extraction motor 61 to rotate counterclockwise, the stirring rod 67, the cleaning plate 66 and the screw 69 can be driven to rotate in linkage.

[0113] The stirring rod 67 agitates the aqueous phase to ensure its uniformity and prevent uneven distribution between the lower and upper layers. Simultaneously, the cleaning plate 66 rotates at the bottom of the extraction tank 1 along with the stirring rod 67. The cleaning plate 66 has a vertical surface on one side and an inclined surface on the other. During the counterclockwise rotation, the inclined end of the cleaning plate 66 scrapes the clarified aqueous phase from the bottom of the extraction tank 1 onto the inclined surface. Furthermore, the outer side of the cleaning plate 66 is higher, so the clarified phase remaining on the inclined surface of the cleaning plate 66 will flow from high to low towards the recovery pipe 3. When the clarified aqueous phase is concentrated at the port of the recovery pipe 3, the counterclockwise rotating screw 69 forms a spiral conveyor to quickly clean the clarified phase.

[0114] The specially designed cleaning plate 66 controls the rotation of the screw 69, ensuring that the aqueous phase can be discharged while simultaneously processing the clarified aqueous phase. This allows for thorough cleaning of the interior of the extraction tank 1. The centralized processing of the clarified material prevents blockage of the recovery pipe 3. As a result, the top plate 10 does not need to be opened for water washing during subsequent extractions, effectively reducing the amount of clarified impurities in the extraction tank 1 and ensuring the subsequent extraction effect and stability.

[0115] Third embodiment:

[0116] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 It also includes a high-temperature furnace 2, which is externally mounted on a feeding mechanism 7 and a protection mechanism 8;

[0117] The feeding mechanism 7 includes a feeding cylinder 71 fixed to the inner wall of the high-temperature furnace 2. A feeding motor 72 is bolted to the outer wall of the high-temperature furnace 2. A spiral rod 74 is connected to the inside of the feeding motor 72 and the inside of the feeding cylinder 71 via a keyway. A half gear 73 is connected to the outer wall of the output shaft of the feeding motor 72 and the side of the feeding cylinder 71 via a keyway. A rack reciprocating ring 75 is meshed on the outer wall of the half gear 73. A feeding frame 76 is sealed and installed through the top of the feeding cylinder 71.

[0118] The protection mechanism 8 includes a mounting bracket 81 installed on the side wall of the high-temperature furnace 2 and located on one side of the feeding motor 72. The side wall of the rack reciprocating ring 75 is fixed with a sliding rod 82, and there are two sliding rods 82. The mounting bracket 81 is equipped with two sleeves 83. Piston plates 87 are slidably connected inside the two sleeves 83. A first one-way valve 84 and a second one-way valve 85 are installed inside the two sleeves 83 and on one side of the piston plate 87. An air inlet pipe 86 is installed at the inlet end of the first one-way valve 84.

[0119] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 9 In the first embodiment, during stages S1 and S2, the pulverized powder needs to be fed from the feeding frame 76 into the feeding cylinder 71. Then, the user starts the feeding motor 72 to control the screw rod 74 to rotate inside the feeding cylinder 71. The powder is fed into the high-temperature furnace 2 for roasting by the screw conveyor.

[0120] Understandable: The feeding frame 76 can be equipped with an external, fully sealed pipeline for conveying powder materials.

[0121] Please see Figure 9 and Figure 10During the process of feeding material, the screw rod 74 driven by the feeding motor 72 rotates and feeds material, the half gear 73 on the output shaft of the feeding motor 72 will continue to rotate. The continuous rotation of the half gear 73 can mesh and control the rack reciprocating ring 75 to perform horizontal reciprocating motion along the rotation trajectory of the half gear 73.

[0122] The reciprocating motion of the rack and pinion ring 75 can synchronously drive the two slide rods 82 to reciprocate. The slide rods 82 are fixedly connected to the piston plate 87. When the piston plate 87 retracts, it draws gas into the sleeve 83 through the first one-way valve 84 and the air inlet pipe 86. When the piston plate 87 pushes, it can push the gas in the sleeve 83 out through the second one-way valve 85.

[0123] One end of the screw rod 74 is rotatably connected to the axis of the feed cylinder 71 via a bearing, and the axes of the two slide rods 82 are fixedly connected to the axes of the two piston plates 87.

[0124] The outlets of the two second one-way valves 85 are sealed to the high-temperature furnace 2 and the extraction tank 1 via hoses.

[0125] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 9 The hoses installed on the outside of the two second one-way valves 85 are respectively connected to the high-temperature furnace 2 and the extraction tank 1. The first one-way valve 84 only allows one-way delivery from the outside to the inside, and the second one-way valve 85 only allows one-way delivery from the inside to the outside. Therefore, when the piston plate 87 moves backward, it forms a suction, and when the piston plate 87 moves forward, it forms a thrust to release air.

[0126] In this embodiment, the powder is transported in a fully sealed environment using a rotating screw 74, ensuring stable transport of the powder inside the high-temperature furnace 2. Furthermore, during the rotation of the screw 74, the rack and pinion ring 75 is linked to drive the slide bar 82, controlling the piston plate 87 to form a reciprocating push-pull stroke within the sleeve 83, thus assisting in air intake and exhaust. Additionally, two sealing pipes are used to seal the high-temperature furnace 2 and the extraction tank 1. An external nitrogen tank can be installed between the sealing pipe connecting the high-temperature furnace 2 and the air inlet pipe 86. The introduction of nitrogen, combined with powder transport, ensures a safer powder transport environment, especially within the high-temperature furnace 2 environment, preventing powder explosions.

[0127] Secondly, the sealing pipe and air inlet pipe 86 connected to the extraction tank 1 can preferably use argon gas for delivery. By using an inert gas to enter the interior of the extraction tank 1, the extraction environment can be made more stable, and the oxidation of the extractant and solvent can be prevented, thereby further improving the extraction effect.

[0128] Third embodiment:

[0129] Please see Figure 1, Figure 4 , Figures 11 to 12 It also includes an exhaust mechanism 9, and a linkage disk 13 is connected to the keyway on the outer wall of the key rod 63 and above the mounting plate 62. A protrusion 14 is fixed on the top of the linkage disk 13.

[0130] The exhaust mechanism 9 includes an exhaust pipe 91 fixed inside the top plate 10 and the mounting cover 11. A limiting plate 92 is fixed at the middle position of the exhaust pipe 91. A lifting rod 94 is slidably connected at the axis of the limiting plate 92. The limiting plate 92 has through holes 93 that are evenly distributed in annular pattern inside. A guide wheel 96 is installed at the bottom end of the lifting rod 94. A sealing plate 95 is fixed at the top end of the lifting rod 94.

[0131] The bottom of the guide wheel 96 is in contact with the upper surface of the linkage disk 13, and the sealing plate 95 adopts a tapered design that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

[0132] Please see Figure 4 In the process of the first embodiment, whether the extraction motor 61 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, it will drive the linkage disk 13 to rotate.

[0133] Please see Figure 11 and Figure 12 In (a): When the exhaust mechanism 9 is in its initial state, the guide wheel 96 will be in contact with the upper surface of the linkage disk 13. At this time, it is affected by gravity, and the sealing plate 95 will seal the top of the exhaust pipe 91. At this time, the internal environment of the entire extraction tank 1 is a sealed environment. During the operation of the second embodiment, the argon gas that enters will exist in the internal environment of the extraction tank 1 for gas protection extraction.

[0134] Please see Figure 11 and Figure 12 In (b): When the linkage disk 13 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, when the inclined surface of the protrusion 14 on the linkage disk 13 rotates to the position of the guide wheel 96, it will abut against the guide wheel 96 upward. The guide wheel 96 drives the lifting rod 94 to rise along the limit plate 92, thereby controlling the separation of the sealing plate 95 from the top of the exhaust pipe 91. The gas in the extraction tank 1 will enter the exhaust pipe 91 and pass through the through hole 93 in the limit plate 92, and finally exhaust from the top of the exhaust pipe 91.

[0135] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4 The entire exhaust mechanism 9 is installed inside the top plate 10 and the mounting cover 11, which ensures that the gas is directly discharged to the outside. Depending on the actual use, gas treatment equipment, such as activated carbon adsorption devices, can be installed independently outside the exhaust mechanism 9.

[0136] In this embodiment: During the operation of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, in the operation of the first embodiment, the linkage disk 13 can rotate synchronously with the clockwise rotation of the extraction motor 61. The continuously rotating linkage disk 13 drives the protrusion 14 to rotate to realize the intermittent control of the opening and closing of the exhaust mechanism 9. In this way, intermittent exhaust can be realized during the extraction process, which can not only ensure the stable pressure state of the extraction tank 1 during the extraction process, but also avoid excessive loss of argon gas inside the extraction tank 1, ensuring stable extraction effect while achieving safe pressure stabilization.

[0137] When the extraction motor 61 rotates counterclockwise to process the aqueous phase, the linkage disk 13 can also rotate to drive the protrusion 14 to control the exhaust mechanism 9 to open and exhaust. During the aqueous phase processing, the protrusion 14 can be kept in the open state of the exhaust mechanism 9, so that all the gas in the extraction tank 1 can be completely discharged, which is convenient for the user to carry out subsequent extraction and ensure that the internal and external gas media are the same.

[0138] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent structural transformations made under the concept of the present invention using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A gallium extraction apparatus, characterized in that, Includes extraction tank, base, and extraction mechanism; The top of the extraction tank is sealed with a top plate by bolts, and a mounting cover is bolted to the top of the top plate. A feed pipe is installed on the inner wall of the mounting cover. A recovery pipe is installed at the bottom of the extraction tank, and a suction pipe is fixed to the side wall of the extraction tank. The extraction mechanism includes a mounting plate fixed to the inner wall of the extraction tank. An extraction motor is bolted to the upper surface of the top plate and inside the mounting cover. The output shaft of the extraction motor is connected to a keyway via a keyway. A stirring rod is integrally provided at the bottom end of the keyway. A turntable is rotatably connected to the middle position inside the mounting plate. A connecting rod is fixed to the side wall of the turntable. A cleaning plate is fixed to the bottom end of the connecting rod. A ratchet is connected to the keyway via a keyway inside the turntable. Ratchets are rotatably installed inside the turntable on both sides of the ratchet via torsion springs. The extraction agent used by the extraction mechanism during operation can be an organic extraction agent such as Kelex 100 or LIX series. A positioning plate is bolted inside the cleaning plate, and a screw is bolted inside the recycling pipe and located on one side of the positioning plate. It also includes a high-temperature furnace, the exterior of which is equipped with a feeding mechanism and a protection mechanism; The feeding mechanism includes a feeding cylinder fixed to the inner wall of a high-temperature furnace. A feeding motor is bolted to the outer wall of the high-temperature furnace. A spiral rod is connected to the inside of the feeding motor and the inside of the feeding cylinder via a keyway. A half gear is connected to the outer wall of the output shaft of the feeding motor and the side of the feeding cylinder via a keyway. A rack reciprocating ring is meshed on the outer wall of the half gear. A feeding frame is sealed and installed through the top of the feeding cylinder. The protection mechanism includes a mounting bracket installed on the side wall of the high-temperature furnace and located on one side of the feeding motor. The side wall of the rack reciprocating ring is fixed with a sliding rod, and there are two sliding rods. The mounting bracket is equipped with two sleeves. Piston plates are slidably connected inside the two sleeves. A first one-way valve and a second one-way valve are installed inside the two sleeves and on one side of the piston plates. An air inlet pipe is installed at the inlet end of the first one-way valve. One end of the screw rod is rotatably connected to the axis of the feed cylinder via a bearing, and the axes of the two slide rods are fixedly connected to the axes of the two piston plates. The outlets of the two second one-way valves are sealed to the high-temperature furnace and extraction tank via hoses. Argon gas is used to supply gas to the sealing pipe connecting the extraction tank and the gas inlet pipe. Argon gas enters the interior of the extraction tank, which on the one hand ensures a more stable extraction environment, and on the other hand prevents the extraction agent and solvent from oxidizing, thereby further improving the extraction effect. It also includes an exhaust mechanism, wherein a linkage plate is connected to the keyway on the outer wall of the key rod above the mounting plate, and a protrusion is fixed on the top of the linkage plate; The exhaust mechanism includes an exhaust pipe fixed inside the top plate and the mounting cover. A limiting plate is fixed in the middle of the exhaust pipe. A lifting rod is slidably connected to the axis of the limiting plate. The limiting plate has through holes distributed in an equidistant ring inside. A guide wheel is installed at the bottom end of the lifting rod. A sealing plate is fixed at the top end of the lifting rod. The bottom of the guide wheel contacts the upper surface of the linkage plate, and the sealing plate adopts a tapered design that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

2. The gallium extraction apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outlet end of the feed pipe passes through the interior of the mounting cover and extends to the interior of the top plate. The extraction tank is mounted to the base by bolts around its perimeter.

3. The gallium extraction apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ratchet and ratchet teeth mesh with each other, and the outer wall of the screw fits against the inner wall of the recycling tube.

4. The gallium extraction apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the long end of the cleaning plate is in contact with the inner wall of the extraction tank, and the cleaning plate is designed to be high on the outside and gradually lower on the inside.

5. A method for extracting metallic gallium, characterized in that, The gallium extraction method is used in the gallium extraction apparatus as described in any one of claims 1-4, and includes the following steps: S1: Material pretreatment; Lithium-containing silicate minerals, and not limited to minerals, all materials containing gallium can be crushed and ground to a fineness of 200 mesh or more, accounting for more than 50%, in order to improve the reactivity. S2: High-temperature roasting; The finely ground material is mixed with sulfate at a mass ratio of 1:1–1:3 until homogeneous. The mixture was placed in a high-temperature furnace and heated at 600–900°C for 1–3 hours. At this high temperature, the sulfate decomposed to produce SO3, which reacted with gallium in the mineral to form gallium sulfate Ga2(SO4)3. Ga2O3 + 3SO3 → Ga2(SO4)3; S3: Water immersion concentration; The product after the high-temperature reaction was cooled to room temperature, and water was added for leaching. Gallium sulfate is easily soluble in water and enters the solution. The solution was evaporated and concentrated multiple times, while other insoluble impurities remained in the residue. The leaching solution and residue were separated by filtration to obtain a gallium-containing solution. S4: Solvent extraction, the entire extraction process is carried out in an extraction tank; Gallium was selectively extracted from a gallium-containing solution using an organic extractant; the extraction conditions were as follows: pH value: 2–3; Extractant concentration: 5–10%; In comparison, the ratio of organic phase to aqueous phase is 1:1–1:3; The gallium-loaded organic phase is back-extracted with an acidic solution to obtain a high-concentration gallium-containing solution. The extractant can be an organic extractant such as Kelex 100 or LIX series. Mixing section: The leachate and organic phase are mixed at a volume ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 for 5 to 10 minutes; Clarification stage: After settling and stratification, the gallium-rich organic phase enters the back-extraction process, while the aqueous phase is returned to leaching or discarded. The organic phase is drawn into the back-extraction process through the suction pipe, and the aqueous phase is discharged through the recovery pipe. S5: Gallium recovery; Metallic gallium is obtained by electrolysis or chemical reduction of high-concentration gallium-containing solutions. Electrolysis conditions: Current density 200–500 A / m 2 Voltage 3–5V, temperature 25–50℃.

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