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Course profile

Pyrometallurgy (METL6212)

Study period
Sem 1 2025
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person

Course overview

Study period
Semester 1, 2025 (17/02/2025 - 14/06/2025)
Study level
Undergraduate
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person
Units
2
Administrative campus
St Lucia
Coordinating unit
Chemical Engineering School

Design of high temperature metal production technologies. Reaction equilibria, reaction kinetics and mechanisms in heterogeneous systems. Reactor design.

This course will advance your understanding of high temperature reaction equilibria, reaction kinetics and mechanisms in heterogeneous systems critical for metal extraction and recycling. These concepts will be applied to specific reaction phenomena and to the modelling of high temperature reaction systems and metal production and recycling technologies.

Course requirements

Assumed background

It is assumed that students will have knowledge of chemical thermodynamics, mass and energy balances, chemical reactor design, mass and thermal transfer processes.

Prerequisites

You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:

CHEE2030 or CHEE3003

Recommended prerequisites

We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:

METL2201 or MINE2201

Incompatible

You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:

MINE3212 or MINE4202

Course contact

Course staff

Lecturer

Tutor

Timetable

The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.

Additional timetable information

Timetables are subject to change during the beginning of semester. For up to date timetable information please check my SI-Net.

Aims and outcomes

1ᅠTo develop skills in the analysis and design of pyrometallurgical processes.

2ᅠTo provide proficiency in techniques used in the prediction and analysis of pyrometallurgical processes.

3ᅠTo further expand knowledge of the characteristics of high temperature processes.

4ᅠTo examine the technologies used in pyrometallurgical processes.

5ᅠTo promote self-learning and investigative analysis.

6ᅠTo promote teamwork.

7ᅠTo develop written communication skills.

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this course you should be able to:

LO1.

Use of FactSage: use the FactSage computer packages to calculate the outcomes of chemical reactions.

LO2.

Apply knowledge to the design, analysis, operation and improvement of industrial pyrometallurgical high-temperature processing systems, in particular smelting, converting, refining and metal recycling.

LO3.

Identify, analyse and quantify the important process variables in pyrometallurgical processes.

LO4.

Undertake key engineering calculations relating to the characterisation of metallurgical systems to a standard expected of graduate engineers

LO5.

Give a structured, clear and well argued written and oral presentation on a scientific or engineering topic

LO6.

Present a well-structured, written engineering report.

Assessment

Assessment summary

Category Assessment task Weight Due date
Tutorial/ Problem Set Tutorial exercises
  • Online
35% Formative

Due Mon 1pm next week except i) Tut.wk.4 due Mon wk.6, ii) Tut.wk.5 due Mon wk.7, iii) Tut wk.9 due Tu wk.10

Project High Temp. Process Design/Lab. test
  • Online
10% Formative

2/05/2025 4:00 pm

Project High Temp. Process Analysis 5% Formative

30/05/2025 4:00 pm

Presentations Tu & Wed, Report due Fri.

Examination Exam During Exam Period (Central)
  • Hurdle
  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
50% Summative, Hurdle

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.

Assessment details

Tutorial exercises

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Tutorial/ Problem Set
Weight
35% Formative
Due date

Due Mon 1pm next week except i) Tut.wk.4 due Mon wk.6, ii) Tut.wk.5 due Mon wk.7, iii) Tut wk.9 due Tu wk.10

Learning outcomes
L02, L03, L04

Task description

Weeks 1,2,3,5,7,8,9,10,11,12=10x(2+1)% + Week 4 = (5+1)%.

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Submission through Blackboard.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

Max Extension Period - 7 days

Late Penalty without an approved extension - Refer to the Late Submission section

Rationale - Results and feedback are released after 7 days

Adjustment - Beyond 7 days, an exemption may be granted for up to one problem set with the weighting re-distributed to other problem sets.

Late submission

A penalty of 1 grade for each 24 hour period from time submission is due will apply for up to 7 days. After 7 days you will receive a mark of 0.

Assessments must be submitted on or before the due date. Late submissions of assessment items will only be accepted if approval for late submission has been obtained prior to the due date.

Penalties Apply for Late Submission

Refer PPL Assessment Procedure Section 3 Part C (48)

A Student Access Plan (SAP) can only be used for a first extension. Extensions based on an SAP may be granted for up to seven (7) days, or the maximum number of days specified in the Course Instance (CI), if it is less than seven (7) days. Any further extensions will require additional supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate.

High Temp. Process Design/Lab. test

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Project
Weight
10% Formative
Due date

2/05/2025 4:00 pm

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L06

Task description

Individual project / assessment; Detailed instructions on the Project, and breakdown of tasks and marking will be posted on blackboard, including

I. Cu Smelting Process Design / Lab test (FactSage model 7% + Lab Test 3% ).

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Submission through Blackboard.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.

Late submission

A penalty of 1 grade for each 24 hour period from time submission is due will apply for up to 7 days. After 7 days you will receive a mark of 0.

Assessments must be submitted on or before the due date. Late submissions of assessment items will only be accepted if approval for late submission has been obtained prior to the due date.

Penalties Apply for Late Submission

Refer PPL Assessment Procedure Section 3 Part C (48)

A Student Access Plan (SAP) can only be used for a first extension. Extensions based on an SAP may be granted for up to seven (7) days, or the maximum number of days specified in the Course Instance (CI), if it is less than seven (7) days. Any further extensions will require additional supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate.

High Temp. Process Analysis

Mode
Written
Category
Project
Weight
5% Formative
Due date

30/05/2025 4:00 pm

Presentations Tu & Wed, Report due Fri.

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L06

Task description

Individual project / assessment; Detailed instructions on the Project, and breakdown of tasks and marking will be posted on Blackboard, including

II) Pyrometallurgical Metal/ Alloy Process Analysis (Presentation 2% and Report 3%).

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

Submission through Blackboard.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.

Late submission

A penalty of 1 grade for each 24 hour period from time submission is due will apply for up to 7 days. After 7 days you will receive a mark of 0.

Assessments must be submitted on or before the due date. Late submissions of assessment items will only be accepted if approval for late submission has been obtained prior to the due date.

Penalties Apply for Late Submission

Refer PPL Assessment Procedure Section 3 Part C (48)

A Student Access Plan (SAP) can only be used for a first extension. Extensions based on an SAP may be granted for up to seven (7) days, or the maximum number of days specified in the Course Instance (CI), if it is less than seven (7) days. Any further extensions will require additional supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate.

Exam During Exam Period (Central)

  • Hurdle
  • Identity Verified
  • In-person
Mode
Written
Category
Examination
Weight
50% Summative, Hurdle
Due date

End of Semester Exam Period

7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025

Learning outcomes
L02, L03, L04, L05

Task description

Final examination - Closed book exam. Calculator is required.

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Hurdle requirements

45% is required on the FINAL EXAM (summative) for a grade of 4 or higher.

Exam details

Planning time 10 minutes
Duration 180 minutes
Calculator options

(In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator

Open/closed book Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted
Exam platform Paper based
Invigilation

Invigilated in person

Submission guidelines

Deferral or extension

You may be able to defer this exam.

Course grading

Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.

Grade Description
1 (Low Fail)

Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: The student fails to demonstrate any relevant knowledge or understanding of the underlying concepts. Much of the information provided is inaccurate and irrelevant. Typically 0 - 19.9% overall.

2 (Fail)

Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: The student fails to demonstrate any relevant knowledge or understanding of the underlying concepts. Much of the information provided is inaccurate and irrelevant. Typically 20 - 44.9% overall OR with >=45% overall with < 35% formative and < 25% summative. The minimum percentage required for a grade of 2 is: 20%.

3 (Marginal Fail)

Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes

Course grade description: Falls short of satisfying all basic requirements for a Pass. Some knowledge of the subject is evident but the student only demonstrates a limited understanding of the underlying concepts and the information provided is largely inaccurate or irrelevant. Typically 45 - 49.9% overall with >= 35% formative and >= 25% summative OR with >=50% overall with with < 45% formative and < 45% summative. The minimum percentage required for a grade of 3 is: 45%.

4 (Pass)

Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: The student demonstrates a sound knowledge of the relevant information and at least a partial understanding of the underlying concepts. Has some correct and some incorrect information. Typically >= 50% overall with >= 45% summative. The minimum percentage required for a grade of 4 is: 50%.

5 (Credit)

Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: The student demonstrates a sound knowledge of the relevant information and a sound understanding of the key concepts. There are only minor factual inaccuracies. Typically >= 65% overall with >= 45% summative. The minimum percentage required for a grade of 5 is: 65%.

6 (Distinction)

Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Key concepts are understood. There are only very minor factual inaccuracies and no irrelevant information. Typically >= 75% overall with >= 45% summative. The minimum percentage required for a grade of 6 is: 75%.

7 (High Distinction)

Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Key concepts are understood. There is evidence of critical analysis and an ability to synthesise information from different aspects of the subject. There are no factual inaccuracies and no irrelevant information. Typically >= 85% overall with >= 45% summative. The minimum percentage required for a grade of 7 is: 85%.

Supplementary assessment

Supplementary assessment is available for this course.

Additional assessment information

Use of calculators

Unless specified elsewhere in the Course Profile, ONLY University approved and labelled calculators can be used in all exams for this course. Please consult my.UQ ᅠhttps://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/sitting-exam/approved-calculators for information about approved calculators and obtaining a label for non-approved calculators.

Learning resources

You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.

Library resources

Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.

Other course materials

Recommended

Item Description Further Requirement
Hayes, P.C., 2003. Process Principles in Minerals and Materials Production , 3rd edition, Hayes Publishing, Sherwood, Qld 4075.
Levin et al 1964 Phase diagrams for ceramists.
Slag Atlas (Kept at Desk Dorothy Hill Library).
Hae-Geon Lee. Chemical thermodynamics for metals and materials.

Additional learning resources information

FactSage computer package: http://www.crct.polymtl.ca

Full database available through undergraduate computer labs and remote desktop.

Additional notes and selected articles will be supplied on Blackboard by the Course Co-ordinator as required.

Learning activities

The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.

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Learning period Activity type Topic
Lecture

Week 1

Introduction to the course, pyrometallurgical and high-temperature process characteristics; reaction equilibria, revision of thermodynamic principles.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04

Tutorial

Week 1

Reaction equilibria, (Continuation of the Lecture and then - tutorial).

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Lecture

Week 2

Phase equilibria - binary and ternary revision, key phase diagrams, Fe-O and Fe-O-Si (Osborne + Muan), multi-component systems.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Tutorial

Week 2

Phase Equilibria.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Lecture

Week 3

Cu smelting principles, Yasawa diagram, t/d/ph.eq of the smelting-converting-cleaning-refining cycle.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Tutorial

Week 3

Reaction equilibria and phase equilibria.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Lecture

Week 4

Pyrometallurgical process set points, introduction to Tutorial Mass/heat balance spreadsheet/ matrix and FactSage introduction.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03

Information technology session

Week 4

Mass/heat balance spreadsheet/ matrix introduction.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Lecture

Week 5

Pyrometallurgy process modelling principles, Modelling packages, Analytical tools, FactSage introduction, Process model project introduction.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04

Information technology session

Week 5

FactSage phase equilibria, heat balance, partitioning.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Practical

Week 5

High temperature laboratory process chemistry test - phase equilibria experiment, Metallography preparation and optical microscopy analysis (at UQ Long Pocket, Banksia Bld 1016, Rooms 149 and 241).

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L06

Lecture

Week 6

Cu smelting processes overview.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04

Information technology session

Week 6

FactSage process model- heat balance, partitioning.

Learning outcomes: L01, L04

Lecture

Week 7

Partitioning of minor elements; Gas / condensed phases equilibria.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04

Tutorial

Week 7

Minor elements, gas/condensed phase equilibria.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04

Lecture

Week 8

Bonding, crystal structure, chemical & physicochemical properties. Approach to equilibrium: Reaction kinetics & mechanisms.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03

Tutorial

Week 8

Bonding, crystal structure, chemical & physicochemical properties. Approach to equilibrium: Reaction kinetics & mechanisms.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Lecture

Week 9

Iron & steel making.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03

Tutorial

Week 9

Iron & steel making.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04

Lecture

Week 10

Pb/Zn smelting overview.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04

Tutorial

Week 10

Pb/Zn smelting.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04

Lecture

Week 11

Refractories and freeze lining in pyrometallurgical reactors.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04

Tutorial

Week 11

Refractories and freeze lining in pyrometallurgical reactors.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04

Lecture

Week 12

Recycling pyrometallurgical processes.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04

Tutorial

Week 12

Recycling pyrometallurgical processes.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04

Workshop

Week 13

Pyrometallurgical metal/alloy process review - presentations.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05, L06

Workshop

Week 13

Pyrometallurgical metal/alloy process review - presentations.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05, L06

Policies and procedures

University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:

Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.

School guidelines

Your school has additional guidelines you'll need to follow for this course:

  • Safety Induction for Practicals

Course guidelines

Anyone undertaking courses with a practical component must complete the UQ Undergraduate Student Laboratory Safety Induction and pass the associated assessment.

Specific instructions, usage guidelines and rules for each of the undergraduate laboratories will be delivered as part of each course.

In some cases, students may be required to attend a specific face-to-face laboratory induction/training session.