In situ X-ray diffraction analysis of iron ore sinter phases

Owing to the depletion of world lump iron ore stocks, pre-treated agglomerates of fine ores are making up a growing proportion of blast-furnace feedstock (∼80%). These agglomerations, or `sinters', are generally composed of iron oxides, ferrites (most of which are silicoferrites of calcium and aluminium, SFCAs), glasses and dicalcium silicates (C2S). SFCA is the most important bonding phase in iron ore sinter, and its composition, structural type and texture greatly affect its physical properties. Despite its prevalence and importance, the mechanism of SFCA formation is not fully understood. In situ powder X-ray diffraction investigations have been conducted into the formation of SFCA, allowing the study of the mechanism of its formation and the observation of intermediate phases with respect to time and temperature. Studies have been carried out to investigate the effects of changing the substitution levels of aluminium for iron. The use of the Rietveld method for phase quantification gives an indication of the order and comparative rates of phase formation throughout the experiments.