Study of mechanically-entrained copper droplet in slags due to their interaction with spinel solids

Slags play an essential role in pyrometallurgical processes acting as collectors for specific groups of metals, for reducing heat losses and for the elimination of unwanted impurities. Decantation is often the last step, allowing the phase separation between slag and matte/metal. Although desirable, a perfect phase separation is impossible and valuable metal losses are inevitable and, consequently, an important issue in metal extraction industries. In order to further optimize these processes, it is essential to gain fundamental knowledge concerning the nature and origin of these losses.