copperironsulfur

Copper iron sulfur, commonly known as chalcopyrite, is a copper iron sulfide mineral with the chemical formula CuFeS2. It is the most important ore of copper, contributing a large portion of global copper production. The mineral typically forms brass-yellow, metallic crystals and occurs in massive as well as granular habits.

Chalcopyrite crystallizes in the tetragonal system. Its structure can show partial disorder of copper and iron on shared crystallographic sites. The mineral’s characteristic color is a bright, brassy yellow with a metallic luster, often tarnishing to greenish-black or brown upon weathering.

Occurrence and geology: Chalcopyrite is widespread in hydrothermal vein deposits and porphyry copper systems. It is commonly associated with quartz, pyrite, bornite, and other sulfide minerals. World production occurs in many regions, including the Americas, Africa, and Asia, reflecting its status as a primary copper source.

Processing and use: As a principal copper ore, chalcopyrite is mined, crushed, and ground, then concentrated by froth flotation to produce a copper concentrate. The concentrate is smelted and refined to yield refined copper metal. Sulfur is released as sulfur dioxide during processing, and proper emission controls are used to mitigate environmental impact. Chalcopyrite remains a focus of mining geology and mineralogy due to its economic importance and distinctive properties.