Influence of multivalent ions on the electrical conductivity of slags
Context
The transition towards a net zero emission society poses the metals industry with a twofold challenge of both increasing the production output while simultaneously decreasing its own CO2 emissions. Electric furnaces can provide a crucial role in achieving both goals. Their operation is strongly dependent on the slag electrical conductivity as it affects the furnace’s heat generation and their electricity consumption. Only limited experimental data is available for this slag property which hinders an optimal operation and design of these furnaces.
Research objectives
The main objective of this work was to increase the understanding of slag electrical conductivity containing lead and iron oxide. This was achieved through:
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The construction of a high temperature experimental set-up
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Experimental data collection on synthetic slags with varying oxide compositions and/or iron oxidation states
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The construction of an electrical conductivity model based on slag composition/slag molecular structure
Project logo and funding logo
This project was supported by VLAIO, the Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship Agency and Umicore N.V.
