Silver as a By-Product of Porphyry Copper Deposits: The Geology, Economic Importance and Sustainability

Silver, often regarded as a critical mineral, is one of the major by-products of Porphyry copper deposits (PCDs) which are of great economic importance. Even though copper is the focus of mining activities in PCDs, silver mining is also part of the process as a by-product. The geochemical and mineralogical relationships of silver in PCDs are complex and hence the need for complex ore processing techniques to ensure optimum recovery. This research focuses on reviews and case studies of silver as a by-product in copper mining from PCDs with consideration of the dynamics of the availability of the metal, extraction techniques, and processing. This study takes a critical look into the extraction, processing, market dynamics and the future of silver as a by-product in porphyry copper deposits mining. This study also encompasses an investigation of the global market demand for silver and its use in various sectors such as renewable energy and electronics, and examines the forces affecting the market demand for silver, including price volatility, and geopolitical issues.