An independent certification for copper producers, verifying adherence to international ESG (environmental, social, and governance) standards. It assures responsible production, transparency, and ethical sourcing in the copper supply chain.

Naturally occurring mineral deposits containing copper-bearing minerals, which are mined and processed to extract copper. Common copper ores include chalcopyrite, bornite, and malachite.

A type of copper ore that contains copper in the form of sulfide minerals, such as chalcopyrite and bornite. These ores are typically processed through flotation to produce copper concentrate.

The final product of the copper refining process, produced from smelting and electrolysis. It is a high-purity form of copper (typically 99.99% Cu) used in various applications, including electrical wiring and electronics.

A slab of impure copper produced during the smelting process, which is further refined through electrolysis to produce copper cathode.

An intermediate product produced by processing copper ore through crushing, grinding, and flotation. It contains a high percentage of copper (typically 20–35% Cu).

The process of purifying copper ore or concentrate to produce high-purity copper cathode, typically through smelting and electrolysis.

The process of extracting copper from its ore by heating it in a furnace, resulting in the production of copper matte and slag. This is a key step in the copper production chain.

A by-product of the smelting process, consisting of impurities and waste materials that are separated from the molten copper. It is typically composed of silicates and other minerals.

A hydrometallurgical process where copper is extracted from low-grade ores or waste materials by dissolving it in a solution, typically using sulfuric acid.

A method of purifying copper by passing an electric current through a solution containing copper ions. This process deposits pure copper onto cathodes while impurities settle as anode sludge.

The waste material left after the extraction of copper from ore. Tailings are typically composed of finely ground rock and residual minerals that do not contain economically recoverable copper.

A method used in the processing of copper ore, where chemicals and air bubbles are introduced to separate copper-bearing minerals from waste material (gangue). This process is essential for producing copper concentrate.

An intermediate product obtained during the smelting process, containing about 98–99% copper. It is further refined to produce high-purity copper cathode.

A molten mixture of copper sulfides produced during the smelting process, which is further processed to extract pure copper.

A method of extracting copper from solution by adding chemicals that cause copper ions to form solid particles, which can then be collected and processed.