"In situ" observation of smelting reduction and carburization of iron ore with carbonaceous materials by laser scanning microscope

It is a very valuable key technology to accelerate the rates of smelting reduction of iron ore and the succeeding carburization at low temperatures for lower energy consumption in the iron-making process. It is well known that the smelting reduction and carburization are very complicated phenomena, but the mechanism has not yet been brought into daylight. It is considered that the molten iron oxide containing slag among carbonaceous materials and reduced iron is strongly concerned in the phenomena. Thereupon, an experimental model is made in the present work, and "in situ" observation was made on the smelting reduction and carburization phenomena at iron-making temperatures by a laser-scanning microscope. The mechanism of the phenomena is discussed based on the observed results and concentration profiles of carbon in quenched iron samples.