Pyro process suitable for saprolite-type laterite-higher nickel grade 

Hydro process suitable for limonite-type laterite-  low nickel content

(The hydrometallurgical  route is significantly better than the pyro method in terms of cost and carbon emissions.)

Five main nickel sulfate production routes

1. High nickel matte
2. Nickel-cobalt hydroxide (MHP) & nickel-cobalt mixed sulfide (MSP)
3. Nickel powder
4. Scrap recycling
5. Nickel sulfate is a copper by-product

　Economic case for high nickel matte route

 ≧33,000 yuan/ton-cost of converting ferronickel to nickel matte

The price difference between Nickel sulfate and ferronickel, when it’s economical to convert ferronickel to nickel sulfate rather than stainless steel

Scenario 1: Electrolytic nickel ≈139,600 yuan/ton

                   Nickel sulfate was ≈ 37,500 yuan/ton, 170,460 yuan/ton based on 22% nickel content

                   Ferronickel ≈ 1180 yuan/ton, 118,000 yuan/ton based nickel content

                   Δ¥. 53,700 yuan/ton, Premium

Scenario 2: Electrolytic nickel ≈166,600 yuan/ton

                   Nickel sulfate was ≈ 39,500 yuan/ton, 179,550 yuan/ton based on 22% nickel content

                   Ferronickel ≈ 1462.50 yuan/ton, 146,250 yuan/ton based nickel content

                   Δ¥. 33,290 yuan/ton, Almost same stainless steel