Utilization of fine fraction of converter slag in the form of an addition to copper concentrate briquettes

Krzysztof Gargul

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64486/m.65.4.3
Online publication date: March 3, 2026

Abstract: During the copper matte converting process, slag is produced. Owing to its valuable components, it is returned to the shaft furnace, where copper concentrates are smelted. Recycled slags should not contain excessive amounts of fine fractions, which reduce the permeability of the furnace charge and may be entrained with the gas stream. This study aimed to investigate the possibility of using a fine fraction of converter slag as an addition to copper concentrate briquettes. The results indicate that the optimal addition, in terms of briquette strength, is 6 % converter slag with a particle size of (0–1) mm. The presence of fayalite in the slag causes even such a small addition to reduce the final melting temperature by approximately 30 °C compared with the slag-free charge. Consequently, copper concen-trates can be smelted with reduced coke consumption, while the resulting shaft slag exhibits lower viscosity and, therefore, reduced copper losses.

Keywords: converter slag; briquettes; melting point; slag recycling

This article is published online first and will appear in Metalurgija, Vol. 65, Issue 4 (2026).