Utilization of waste coal flotation concentrate for copper matte smelting

Abstract

In this work, the process of copper matte smelting with the utilization of a fine-grained coal-bearing material (the so-called coal flotation concentrate) as fuel is presented. This material is obtained by the process of coal sludge utilization, and, currently, it constitutes an undeveloped waste due to environmental restrictions. There have been postulated methods for using this fuel in technological processes. The addition of this material to the copper concentrate briquettes was acknowledged as the best solution. Those briquettes were tested taken into account the practical strength requirements, and they were re-molten to obtain copper matte. The introduction of the floto-concentrate in the mixture to the briquetting process in quantities of up to 10% by mass allows obtaining of the briquettes with the technologically required discharge strength and compressive strength. The Cu content in the copper matte, obtained in the process of smelting briquettes containing Cu concentrate and coal flotation concentrate, is within the range of values obtained under industrial conditions.

Keywords

• Environmental pollution
• Coal waste utilization
• Copper matte
• Nonferrous metallurgy
• Alternative fuels