Crop-derived charcoal boosts iron pellet strength for efficient blast furnaces.
Agricultural residuals and iron ore were used to make carbon-containing pellets in this study. The strength of the pellets depended on factors like particle size, moisture content, and temperature during processing. Fine raw materials and more bentonite improved pellet strength. The ideal carbon to oxygen ratio was 1.0, with 8.0% moisture and 6.5% binder. Higher reduction temperatures led to stronger pellets, with a significant increase at 1200°C. Grinding the concentrate could further enhance pellet strength for use in blast furnaces.