Reduction of iron oxide by carbon in stainless steelmaking slags

Kinetics of iron oxide reduction by carbon in typical stainless steelmaking slags where slag chemistry changed continuously due to dissolution of Al sub 2 O sub 3 was studied. The progress of reaction was monitored by X-ray equipment. A foamy slag formed in all cases. The foaming characteristics and the rate of reduction were dependent on the slag composition. Both chromium and vanadium oxides reduce the reaction rate. Change of slag chemistry due to dissolution of Al sub 2 O sub 3 does not affect the reaction rate. The rate controlling step depends on the stirring of slag due to gas generation by simultaneous reduction of oxides.