Hydrometallurgy vs pyrometallurgy

Hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy are two methods for extracting metals from ores. Hydrometallurgy uses aqueous solutions, such as acids or cyanide, to dissolve metals at relatively low temperatures, making it suitable for delicate or low-grade ores. Pyrometallurgy involves high-temperature processes like smelting to extract metals by melting or roasting, often requiring more energy but often faster and more suitable for high-grade ores. Essentially, hydrometallurgy is chemical-based and operates with liquids at lower temperatures, while pyrometallurgy relies on heat to transform or separate metals from their ore.