Phelps Dodge

Phelps Dodge Corporation was a major American mining company founded in 1834, specializing in the production of copper and other minerals. For over a century, it stood as one of the world's largest copper producers, with significant operations in North and South America. The company's business model focused on the exploration, mining, and refining of base metals, particularly copper and molybdenum. In 2007, Phelps Dodge was acquired by Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. for approximately $25.9 billion, creating the largest publicly traded copper company in the world. The company is not a life science or healthcare entity, though it utilized bioleaching technologies in its mining operations.