MadSci Network: Chemistry
Query:

Re: Would Cu replace Sn when Sn cans are placed in acidic Cu solutions?

Date: Tue May 25 22:33:49 1999
Posted By: Charlie Crutchfield, , Retired, Retired
Area of science: Chemistry
ID: 927515609.Ch
Message:

Cu is more"Noble" than is Sn, so that Cu metal would "plate out" and the Sn 
metal would disasolve.

BUT!- "Tin" cans are not made of Sn anymore, they are steel [Fe] with only 
a very thin [about 20 millionths inch] plating of Sn on the steel. 

This process is in common use for the recovery of Cu from mine water. the 
precipitated Cu is called "Cement Copper". It is also used to recover the 
small amnount of Cu remaining in mine tailings. Essentially, the acidic 
Cu-containing solution is alllowed to percolate slowly through a bed of 
scrap iron.The Fe is oxidized and the Cu salt is reduced. Depending on the 
efficiency of the operation, about 1 - 2 pounds of Fe metal is required for 
1 pound of Cu metal.




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