Chemical Reactions During the Electric Smelting of Nickel-Copper Calcines

AbstractThe smelting behaviour of nickel-copper calcines in the electric furnace was studied by a thermogravimetric-gas chromatographic technique in conjunction with chemical and micrographic analysis. The sequence and nature of reactions during the heating of calcines from 25 to 1250°C were defined by the temperature range and magnitude of weight changes and the characteristics of SO2, CO and CO2 gas evolution. Major variables in the tests were: (1) Gas atmosphere (nitrogen and air). (2) Degree of sulphur elimination from calcine (50–75%). (3) Coke addition (0–5%). (4) Lime addition. In the lower temperature range (<900°C), substantial SO2 evolution occurred from decomposition and oxidation reactions in the charge, and CO2 evolution from coke combustion in air. Above the fusion temperature, the dominant reaction was oxide reduction by coke in the presence of liquid matte.Experimental res...