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Optimization of Roasting Process and Thermal Parameter Adaptability for Guisha Limonite Pelletizing
Yanjing Bai1, Xiaolei Zhou1, Xiaotian Ma1
1Faculty of Metallurgical and Energy Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, China.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 26, 2026
Summary
This study addresses thermal decrepitation in Guisha limonite pellets by optimizing bentonite dosage and preheating temperature. An optimized process control strategy and thermal regime were established for improved pellet strength and reduced cracking.
Area of Science:
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Mineral Processing
Background:
- Steel industry requires utilization of low-grade iron ores, specifically Guisha limonite.
- Goethite dehydroxylation in limonite causes thermal decrepitation, impacting pellet quality.
- Previous studies lacked a multi-factor approach to pellet strength and cracking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively evaluate the strength-decrepitation trade-off in Guisha limonite pellets.
- To establish a multi-factor experimental framework considering bentonite dosage, preheating temperature, and pellet size.
- To develop a quantitative decision-making model for pellet production.
Main Methods:
- Systematic investigation of bentonite addition (0.8-1.6 wt%), preheating temperature (600-800 °C), and pellet diameter (9-13 mm).
- Evaluation of thermal cracking mass ratio and compressive strength.
- Application of Min-Max normalization and weighted scoring for a quantitative decision-making model.
Main Results:
- Thermal cracking increases with preheating temperature and decreases with bentonite content.
- Compressive strength peaks at 1.2 wt% bentonite (approx. 1456 N).
- Two optimal process control windows identified at 1.2 wt% and 1.4 wt% bentonite.
Conclusions:
- An optimized thermal regime (preheating at 700 °C, roasting at 1250 °C, slow cooling) was established.
- A decision-making framework for pellet production of similar ores was developed.
- Directly referable process parameters for Guisha limonite pellet production are provided.
