Carbon-in-Column (CIC)

CIC is used for heap leach and vat leach operations where pregnant solution is pumped through fixed-bed carbon columns rather than mixed with pulp. The absence of slurry means mechanical attrition is minimal, so hardness requirements are less stringent. However, CIC carbon must have excellent hydraulic permeability and resistance to fouling from precipitated salts and colloidal material. Particle size is typically larger (6×12 mesh) to minimize pressure drop across the column.