Title: Retention Of Sulfur, Phosphorus, And Carbon In Blast Furnace Slag And Oxygen Converter Processes: Flux Systems And Slag Chemistry Optimization
Authors: Mutalibkhonov S.S., Khudoymuratov Sh.J., Khushbakov D.T.
Volume: 9
Issue: 12
Pages: 238-250
Publication Date: 2025/12/28
Abstract:
- The removal of deleterious elements such as sulfur (S), phosphorus (P), and carbon (C) during ironmaking and steelmaking processes represents a critical challenge in metallurgical engineering. This comprehensive review synthesizes research from over 30 Scopus-indexed scientific publications examining flux addition strategies and slag chemistry modifications to retain these impurities within slag phases rather than allowing them to escape as volatile products or remain in molten metal. The research demonstrates that systematic optimization of slag composition-particularly through precise control of basicity (CaO/SiO? ratio), calcium fluoride addition, and multi-phase slag systems-can significantly enhance impurity retention efficiency. Key findings indicate that slag basicity of 1.0-1.3, operating temperatures of 1350-1450°C, and strategic addition of limestone, dolomite, and synthetic fluxes achieve sulfur removal efficiencies of 70-90% and phosphorus removal efficiencies of 85-95%. Advanced flux systems incorporating calcium ferrite phases and multi-component mineral mixtures demonstrate superior performance in both blast furnace slag formation and converter steelmaking applications. Thermodynamic modeling reveals that phosphorus partition coefficients increase significantly with elevated CaO concentrations and reduced temperatures, while sulfide capacity of slag correlates directly with basicity and MnO/CaO ratios. Industrial applications of optimized slag systems have reduced flux consumption by up to 15% while improving steel quality metrics. Future developments should focus on fluoride-free flux alternatives and kinetic optimization of slag-metal interfacial reactions.