A new method for separating copper-nickel converter mattes

Abstract

The separation of copper-nickel converter mattes in the general scheme of processing sulphide copper-nickel ores is one of the most complex and expensive operations. Of the large number of methods proposed for the separation of converter mattes, the modern copper-nickel industry, as is known, has settled on three, of which the most widespread is the separation smelting of converter matte with sodium sulfide. However, this process, which is approximately sixty years old, is distinguished by significant complexity, and in addition, its implementation at our plants requires long-distance imported materials. Therefore, it is natural to search for more advanced and cheaper methods of separating copper-nickel converter mattes. One of the main prerequisites in developing a process for separating any material is the availability of data on its material composition and structure.