Introduction to Nonferrous Metallurgical Processing

An overview of thermodynamics will be presented focusing on Ellingham-, binary and ternary phase diagram use in the context of pyrometallurgical processing. Smelting and refining aggregates and their operation will be presented. A brief introduction to hydrometallurgy includes the use of Pourbaix E-ph diagrams, explanation of leaching types and the principles of operation of further units such as ion exchange, solvent extraction and precipitation among others. Electrometallurgical principles will be presented (e.g. the role of the electrochemical series) in the context of both electrorefining and electrowinning, while distinguishing between aqueous and molten salt electrolysis.

The following course/module was developed at the TU Bergakademie Freiberg.

Learning outcomes / Competencies:

Students will be introduced to fundamentals and applications within all areas of nonferrous metallurgy, i.e., pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy and electrometallurgy. Hence, the role of thermodynamics will be clearly explained and linked to unit operations pertinent to non-ferrous metallurgy. The course aims to provide a first impression with regard to nonferrous metallurgical processes, principles and associated unit operations, while providing a basis for further study of the above topics within further subjects. Students will be able to understand the fundamentals and applications within all areas of nonferrous metallurgy and  to apply basic aspects.