Distribution behavior of cobalt, selenium, and tellurium between nickel-copper-iron matte and silica-saturated iron silicate slag

Abstract

The distribution coefficients (DX) of cobalt, selenium, and tellurium between nickel-copper-iron matte and silica-saturated iron silicate slag were determined as a function of matte and slag compositions, temperature, and the partial pressure of oxygen. The effect of slag additives, such as CaO, MgO, and Al2O3, on the distribution behavior of the minor elements was also investigated. Analysis of the data indicated that DCo, DSe, and DTe were strongly dependent on the matte grade and slag additives. The effect of slag additives on the solubility of Co, Se, and Te in slag was discussed in terms of various experimental conditions. Cobalt distribution coefficients were found to decrease with increasing oxygen partial pressure, indicating the oxidic dissolution of cobalt in the slag. Based on the experimental results and available thermodynamic data, the activity coefficients of CoS in the nickel-copper-iron matte were estimated as a function of mole fraction of FeS in the matte at 1250 °C. Meanwhile, the distribution coefficients of both selenium and tellurium increased when raising the partial pressure of oxygen, implying that there was molecular dissolution of selenium and tellurium in the slag within the oxygen partial-pressure range investigated in this study.