Electrosmelting of Lead-Containing Dusts from Copper Smelters

Abstract

Experimental and mathematical modeling work has been conducted to develop an effective technological scheme for processing lead-containing dusts generated in copper smelting. The work incorporates conditions of melting, charge composition, and the physical parameters of the dust. The optimal conditions of electrosmelting have been established for complete and comprehensive extraction of the basic and rare metals from the dust. In this one-stage processing, three intermediate products have been recovered: crude lead; basic matte-slag melt containing Cu, Zn, and As; and secondary sublimates enriched in Cd and Re.