Structure and Properties of the Slags of Continuous Converting of Copper Nickel-Containing Mattes and Concentrates: II. Effect of the SiO_2/CaO Ratio on the Structure and Liquidus Temperature of the Slags

摘要

The structure and liquidus temperature of the SiO_2-CaO-Al_2O_3-FeO_x-Cu_2O-NiO slags that form during continuous converting of copper mattes and concentrates into blister copper are analyzed. The slag melt compositions are varied over a wide SiO_2/CaO range. The slags are studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and electron-probe microanalysis. The liquidus temperature of the slags is determined by differential thermal analysis. It is found that, depending on the SiO_2/CaO ratio, the structure and liquidus temperature of the slags change and the forms of copper in a slag also change. The SiO_2/CaO range in a slag is recommended for the process of continuous converting of a copper nickel-containing sulfide raw materials.