(W078)Thermodynamic predictions and experimental investigation of slag liquidus and minor element partitioning between slag and matte in support of the copper Isasmelt smelting process commissioning and optimisation at Kazzinc

摘要

This experimental study is a part of a collaborative research program between The University of Queensland and Kazzinc metallurgists aimed at optimisation of the Isasmelt copper smelting process currently being commissioned. Thermodynamic modelling of the copper smelting process performed using the FactSage computer package is experimentally validated and calibrated. A number of key thermodynamic parameters, in particular, liquidus temperatures and minor elements distribution between copper smelting slag and matte in the range of conditions of interest to the industrial process are experimentally determined. The laboratory and thermodynamic modelling results are then validated and calibrated against actual industrial process through targeted sampling and expert analysis study.