Pyrometallurgy

During the process, various temperature and reduction treatments are applied to remove impurities and unwanted alloying elements.

MAIN STEPS OF THE PYROMETALLURGICAL PROCESS

1. Preparation and Feeding
   
   • The raw material can be mined ore, industrial waste, or alloys from electronic recycling.
   • The raw material is pre-ground and pre-treated as needed to increase processing efficiency.
2. Melting
   
   • During the melting process, the precious metals are heated at high temperatures (1200–1600°C).
   • Due to the different melting points of various alloying elements and impurities, the precious metals separate from the contaminants.
3. Slag Formation and Separation
   
   • Oxides and other impurities formed during the process are separated using slag-forming agents (e.g., boric acid, silicates).
   • The slag is lighter and floats on the metal surface, from where it can be mechanically removed.
4. Reduction and Purification
   
   • Remaining metal oxides are reduced using reducing agents (e.g., carbon, hydrogen).
   • Afterwards, the material is remelted and refined to reach the desired purity level.
5. Casting and Final Refining
   
   • The refined precious metals obtained are cast into ingots, rods, or granules.
   • The final purity is checked using spectrometric or other analytical methods.