Experimental Investigation of Gas/Slag/Matte/Spinel Equilibria in the Cu-Fe-O-S-Si System at 1473 K (1200 A°C) and P(SO2)=0.25 atm

New experimental data were obtained on the gas/slag/matte/spinel equilibria in the Cu-Fe-O-S-Si system at 1473 K (1200 A degrees C) and P(SO2) = 0.25 atm covering Cu concentrations in matte between 42 and 78 wt pct Cu. Accurate measurements were obtained using high-temperature equilibration and the rapid quenching technique, followed by electron-probe X-ray microanalysis of equilibrium phase compositions. The use of spinel substrates made to support the samples ensures equilibrium with this primary phase solid, eliminates crucible contamination, and facilitates direct gas-condensed phase equilibrium and high quenching rates. Particular attention was given to the confirmation of the achievement of equilibrium. The results quantify the relationship between Cu in matte and oxygen partial pressure, sulfur in matte, oxygen in matte, Fe/SiO2 at slag liquidus, sulfur in slag, and dissolved copper in slag.