This study presents an innovative approach to processing refractory zinc-bearing clinker through the synergistic application of microwave thermal treatment and ultrasonic-assisted leaching. Microwave irradiation induces phase transformations in the clinker, improving its reactivity and facilitating subsequent zinc dissolution, while ultrasonic cavitation enhances mass transfer by disrupting passivation layers. Key process parameters, including acid concentration, temperature, pulp density, and leaching time, were systematically investigated using response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD). The results demonstrate that the optimized process conditions led to a significant increase in zinc recovery from refractory materials.

This study presents the results of an investigation into the effectiveness of microwave (MW) treatment (1) as a preconditioning method for technogenic raw materials (2) to enhance zinc (3) leaching (4) efficiency. Selective dielectric heating facilitates phase transformations (5), converting sphalerite (ZnS) into zinc oxide (ZnO), which exhibits significantly improved acid leachability. The response surface methodology (RSM) was utilized to evaluate critical operational variables, encompassing sulfuric acid concentration, leaching period, slurry density, and thermal conditions. The obtained results confirm the potential of MW treatment in hydrometallurgical processes, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative for processing technogenic raw materials.