Review of applicable desulphurization models for crude ferronickel refining

Abstract

Significant literature on desulphurization has been reviewed in the interest of compiling and cross pollinating into the ferronickel refining domain. Control over the slag chemistry as well as the stirring is essential to enhance the desulphurization process. The models used to describe the sulphide capacity can range from simple empirical relationships to complex models with strong consideration of statistical thermodynamics. More complex models have been actively integrated into the multi-purpose thermodynamic software, while the simpler ones can be used for the quick analysis of slag. A review of stirring showed the necessity of this component in maintaining cleaner products. Different stirring will result in different reaction zones which can affect the desulphurization of the melt. Understanding these different physical phenomena is critical to controlling the sulphur content. The current article reviews the existing models and provides a comparison of different stirring processes with an aim to develop a more holistic model by a combination of thermodynamic and physical models.