The distribution of some elements between the metal and silicate phases obtained in a smelting reduction process of dunite from Almklovdalen, West Norway

Abstract

A dunite was smelted at 2000°C and reduced by the addition of coke and anhydrous magnesite. The dunite and the smelting products which consist of an almost pure forsterite phase and a metal phase (75% Fe) were analysed. The partition ratios between metal phase and silicate phase are given for Sc, Si, Mn, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Ag, Au and Ir. The bulk composition after the reduction process and the percentage of each element entering the metal phase have been determined for the same elements. The iron metal-phase obtained in this process contains 13.4% Si and 4.7% Ni. Chromium, nickel and cobalt are concentrated in the iron metal-phase by factors above 200 relative to the forsterite phase. The noble metals Ag, Au and Ir are concentrated in the iron metal-phase by factors above 500 relative to the forsterite phase.