Results of Hydrogen Reduction of Iron Ore Pellets at Different Temperatures

The application of hydrogen as a reducing agent in existing blast furnaces presents a promising avenue for significantly reducing emissions. The current emphasis on hydrogen reduction may necessitate a review of parameters such as the temperature, chemical composition, porosity, reduction time, and reducing agent. In this study, the impact of varying the temperature of reducing iron ore pellets in hydrogen is focused on. A mercury intrusion porosimeter is used to assess the porosity postreduction. The microstructure of the reduced pellets is analyzed with the help of scanning electron microscopy. Notably, the pore size and overall porosity are higher at higher temperatures. Using an X-ray diffractometer, it is determined that Fe2O3 is reduced to Fe across all specified temperatures at different reduction times. The maximum degree of reduction is attained at 1000 degrees C while the minimum degree of reduction is attained at 700 degrees C. Considering these characteristics, researchers in the field can identify the optimal conditions, develop strategies, and advance technologies that contribute to the production of environmentally friendly steel. Using hydrogen as a reductant in DRI units is the steelmaking industry's future, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Hydrogen-based reduction depends on the temperature. High temperature can lead to a high reduction degree; however, this may also bring some change in the porosity and microstructures of pellets. The macropores can be formed beginning at 900 degrees C in the hydrogen atmosphere.image (c) 2024 WILEY-VCH GmbH