Investigation of Pozzolan Activity, Chemical and Granulometric Composition of Micro- and Nanosilicon of the Bratsk Ferroalloy Plant

Abstract

The article presents the findings of a study conducted on a range of microsilicon grades selected at the Bratsk Ferroalloy Plant. The following analytical techniques were employed: X-ray fluorescence analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, a granulometric composition study, and pozzolanic properties. The grades of the investigated microsilicon are compared with the furnace grade and the grade of the produced ferrosilicon. The findings of the research conducted at the Bratsk Ferroalloy Plant indicate that the microsilicon produced at the facility is suitable for use as an additive in the production of tires, artificial irregularities, and other rubber products intended for use on roads. In such applications, the quality and durability of the material are determined by its ability to withstand abrasion and wear. Therefore, it is essential to utilize the purest, most amorphous, and most finely dispersed silicon dioxide. The gas cleaning device GCD-4 FeSi-75 exhibits the greatest number of these parameters among the samples presented. Different samples of microsilica have a color from white to dark gray. The chemical and granulometric compositions were determined. The pozzolan activity was investigated. Based on the conducted analyses, it is possible to draw conclusions about the properties of materials and the potential for use in the construction industry for concretes of various values. The results of the analyses indicate that silicon dioxide with GCD-4 FeSi-75 is suitable for use in critical concrete structures. The quality of the silicon dioxide with GCD-4 FeSi-75 can be compared with that of Elkem 971. It is recommended that all the studied samples be employed as modifiers for cast iron, with the GCD-4 FeSi-75 sample being the optimal choice for testing in steels. The utilization of this modifier enables a reduction in the consumption of FeSi, exerting both an alloying and modifying effect on the melt. However, it is essential to emphasize the necessity for technological selection of the method of administration, as the powder, in its pure form, is susceptible to combustion and is not readily digestible. The quality of such a modifier, with a stable guaranteed effect, is comparable to the use of FeSi. Silicon dioxide plays an essential role in the production of refractories. The primary criteria for this industry are purity, the minimum content of the crystalline phase, and the activity of the material. It is recommended that the material from GCD-4 FeSi-75 be used in the production of refractories.