This study aims to investigate thermodynamic simulation analysis and the influence of temperature and NH3 addition during the reduction of synthetic saprolitic nickel laterite. HSC Chemistry 9.1.5® thermodynamic simulation software is used to predict the phases present, equilibrium composition, and reaction spontaneity. The synthesis of feed material involves ball milling and calcination at 1200oC then reduced at temperatures of 800, 900 and 1000oC with ammonia addition variety of 35, 40, and 45%. Predominance diagram analysis showed that a reducing atmosphere with oxygen partial pressure of 10-18 atm or lower is required for phase transformation. Equilibrium composition diagram analysis revealed maximum nickel recovery at low temperature, but peak Fe recovery at ammonia addition of 35%. Furthermore, ammonia decomposition occurred at 200oC. Reaction spontaneity analysis revealed Ammonia operates directly in reduction at temperatures lower than 600°C while indirect reduction of oxides was spontaneous starting at 900oC. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that reduction of fayalite, forsterite, and enstatite occurred at 900oC with peak nickel and iron recovery at 1000oC with optical microscope analysis predicted the presence of a metallic phase.
"