Volatilization of bismuth in copper matte converting — computer simulation

A computer model has been developed to simulate the behavior of bismuth in copper matte converting at 1100 to 1300 ‡C. The rate equation is integrated numerically by dividing a continuous process of matte converting into a great number of microsteps, in each of which the volatilization of Bi-bearing gases is thermodynamically calculated by assuming a steady state. The bubbles of offgas consisting of SO₂ and N₂ are assumed to be saturated with the vapors of BiS, Bi, BiO, and Bi₂. However, the partial pressures of BiO and Bi₂ are found to remain negligible at all stages of converting. BiS is the most volatile species over the slag-making stage with low grade mattes, but its volatility decreases markedly, becoming negligibly low over white metal. When the copper content of the initial matte is known together with the weight of matte, converting temperature and blowing rate of tuyere air, the present computer model can predict the Bi contents in all the phases involved (gas, slag, matte, copper) at any given time. The predictions by the present computer model are compared with the known commercial data from various smelters around the world. The agreements between the computer predictions and the commercial data are excellent in all cases, so that the present computer model can be used to monitor and optimize the bismuth elimination in the actual industrial operations of copper matte converting. Formerly Associate Professor, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112