Reaction mechanism of ferrosilicon synthesis using waste plastic as a reductant

Abstract

Reaction mechanism study of ferrosilicon synthesis was carried out by using reagent grade material, graphite and waste plastic, Bakelite as reducing agent over a temperature range of 1 623 K to 1 823 K (1 350°C to 1 550°C) under inert atmosphere. Reaction rate was determined by using off-gases evolving from reduction reactions. Results showed that reduction mechanism was predominantly controlled by chemical reactions with both the reducing agent. Initially Bakelite bearing pellet showed faster reaction rate compared to graphite due to volatiles generation and less crystalline nature of Bakelite derived carbon. Extent of reduction can be improved by increasing temperature; however Bakelite bearing pellet showed lower dependency on temperature compared to graphite. Activation energy for graphite and Bakelite pellet is 238.07 kJ/mol and 140.29 kJ/mol respectively. This comparative study will create new opportunities to use waste Bakelite as a reductant even at moderately lower temperature to synthesise ferrosilicon alloy.