REMOVAL OF SULFATES FROM A MELT OF FLOTATION CARNALITE

摘要

It is proposed that the process of purification of a melt of flotation carnalite from sulfate salts dissolved in the melt be conducted by reduction of these salts by means of petroleum coke. Methods of adding a reducing agent to the melt are investigated. The mechanism of the process of desulfation at T = 550-790 deg C is discovered. Experimental and industrial tests of the process of desulfation of a carnalite melt are conducted. The residual concentration of sulfate ions amounts to less than 0.05 percent, moreover, no carbon contamination of the electrolyte occurs. Using the newly developed method it is possible to utilize flotation carnalite as raw material for the production of magnesium metal by electrolysis.