Pelletization and sintering of New Zealand titanomagnetite ironsand

• High strength pellets were obtained using organic and inorganic binder combination. Maximum green was with 65 μm ironsand 0.1 wt% binder. Calcium-bearing binders increase sintered by forming liquid bonding phases. Direct reduction (DR) of iron ore hydrogen is a potential route for near-zero CO 2 steelmaking, but vertical shaft DR reactors require that fines must first be pelletized. This study reports an investigation the pelletization subsequent sintering behaviour titanomagnetite (TTM) ironsand, which main feedstock New Zealand’s steel industry. Initially bound bentonite carboxymethyl-cellulose (Peridur), average particle size µm. The compressive these after at 1200 °C in air hr measured to 976 N, meeting expected requirements reactor. attributed interparticle arising from extensive recrystallisation titanohematite grains oxidation TTM, as well formation phase due melting diffusion binders. Building on results, alternative then explored order lower required temperature. A combination both found deliver optimum performance, wherein based provided pellets, whilst binders, such calcium borate or ground glass, promoted high strengths.