Title: Optimization of Liquid Converter Slag Reprocessing in Pyrometallurgical Smelting Furnaces
Authors: Mutalibkhonov S.S., Kholikulov D.B., Khojiev Sh.T., Musurmankulova A.S.
Volume: 10
Issue: 5
Pages: 122-128
Publication Date: 2026/05/28
Abstract:
Copper smelting operations generate significant quantities of converter slag containing valuable metals and hazardous components. This review analyzes recent advances in reprocessing liquid converter slags in various furnace systems, including Vanyukov autogenous furnaces, reverberatory furnaces, and rotary converters. Literature from Scopus-indexed journals indicates that magnetite reduction followed by pyrometallurgical treatment achieves copper recovery rates of 85-95%, substantially improving upon conventional slag disposal practices. Thermodynamic modeling combined with empirical optimization reveals that maintaining slag basicity between 0.95-1.2, operating temperatures of 1400-1500°C, and employing carbon-based or technogenic reducing agents significantly enhance metal extraction efficiency. This article synthesizes contemporary methodologies and optimization strategies to inform industrial practice and future research directions in sustainable slag utilization.