Development of novel compound binders incorporated in cold-bonded briquettes for carbon neutral and economical blast furnace iron production

The present study introduces four novel compound binders CB1, CB2, CB3 and CB4, incorporated in cold-bonded briquettes (CBBs), by varying 3–6 wt.% and briquetted at briquetting pressures ranging from 200 to 400 MPa. Experimental analyses show that a minimum of 4 wt.% compound binder is required to fulfil blast furnace application requirements. CBBs with 4 wt.% CB1 and CB2 compound binders, briquetted at 200 MPa, achieved compressive loads of 3411 N and 2728 N. Reduction disintegration index (RDI) analysis revealed that CBBs prepared with 4 wt.% CB1 require 250 MPa briquetting pressure and those with 4 wt.% CB2 requires only 200 MPa. Reduction swelling index (RSI) analysis indicated that 4 wt.% of CB1 and CB2 performed well at 200 MPa briquetting pressure, resulting in 16.7% and 18.8% swelling, respectively. Economic assessments showed a reduction of 12% per ton as compared to conventional sinter and 17% per ton for pellet production, attributed to lower energy requirements.