Improving the technology of producing iron ore agglomerate using polyethylene waste

This study examines an innovative approach to improving iron ore sinter production technology by incorporating polyethylene waste into the process. Initially, iron ore was enriched using a magnetic method, resulting in iron ore concentrate. Subsequently, the iron ore concentrate was processed with polyethylene waste to facilitate the extraction of iron from the ore and its conversion into iron ore sinter. The optimal mass ratio of iron ore concentrate, lime and polyethylene waste during the preparation of the charge is set to 50:16:34, respectively, resulting in an iron ore agglomerate with an iron content of 58.94 %. The integration of iron oxides and polyethylene waste occurred during heat treatment of the charge in a laboratory furnace in the temperature range of 400-500 °C. The resulting iron ore agglomerate was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and its chemical composition was determined. The results demonstrate a new type of iron ore sinter with promising characteristics. This improved technology not only improves the efficiency of the sintering process, but also demonstrates the sustainable use of polyethylene waste. The research contributes to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly technology for producing iron ore sinter from iron ore, addressing both resource efficiency and waste management issues in the iron and steel industry.