The effect of petrographically determined parameters on reductant reactivity in the production of high-carbon ferromanganese

In pyrometallurgical processes, metal oxides are reduced from molten slag through carbothermic reduction. It is of interest to evaluate the reactivity carbonaceous materials towards substances such as slag. Characterization techniques coal petrography can provide insight into influence feed properties and how they potentially dictate reductant performance. This study aimed compare petrographically determined organic composition reactivity. Two South African medium-rank C bituminous coals one anthracite sample were investigated together with high-carbon ferromanganese industrial The tests conducted at 1500°C in a muffle furnace assess potential reacting main components. SEM-EDS was applied understand extent MnO (and lesser extent, SiO2) reduction Coal 2, consisting greater proportion vitrinite (59.5 vol% on mineral matter-free basis 54.7 including matter) most reactive reductant. sample, highest inert maceral proportions (71.8 matter 76.8 basis), least