LLC “Institute “Gipronikel”, Saint Petersburg, Russia:

A. N. Glazatov, Leading Researcher of Pyrometallurgy Laboratory, e-mail: angla@nikel.spb.su
Yu. A. Savinova, Junior Researcher of Pyrometallurgy Laboratory

Polar Division of “Norilsk Nickel” MMC, Talnakh, Russia:
K. A. Batsunov, Chief Specialist on Precious Metals of Scientific-Technical Department
M. A. Litvyak, Acting Deputy Head of Metallurgical Production Shop (Copper plant)
N. V. Tretyakova, Head of Laboratory of Control of Industrial Discharges of a Center of Radiation-Ecological Control of Control-Analytical Department

This article gives the results of studies of determination of precious metal losses (Pt, Pd, Rh, Ru, Ir, Au, Ag, Os) with dust from the controlled air emission sources at I, II, and III (overhead) gas cleaning groups at roasting and selenium sites of the Copper Plant Metallurgical Department. Two dust sample types were taken for testing at each gas source outlet during the roasters regular operation mode. ‘Coarse’ dust fractions were sampled at the sampler filter. Gas from the gas-sampler was passed through the bubbler tank with thiourea solution, where the fine dust fraction was obtained. On the basis of results of both dust fraction analyses, considering dust and gas stream parameters, there were defined the precious metal losses in atmosphere and their reduction recommendations. Maximum losses are typical for silver. Rough estimates show that this element is removed from the clean gas bleeders of the I, II and overhead gas cleaning groups, together with fine dust fraction in the amount of ~0.3, 0.6 and 0.11 g/h, respectively. Ag losses to both dust fractions are ~0.55, 0.63 and 0.12 g/h, respectively. Total precious metal losses with venting gases can reach ~21 kg/year (roasting and selenium sites). There was established that precious metals are mainly emitted into the atmosphere in the form of micron and submicron size components. The ‘coarse’ dust samples were subject to qualitative analysis for platinum, palladium and silver phases. To a certain degree of possibility, silver phase occurs in the metallic form. As a component of finely dispersed chlorine-containing compound, this phase is associated with Cu – Se – O multi-phase component. Platinum and palladium are in the metallic form.

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