Rutile from ilmenite using coconut pith as a reductant

Abstract

Rutile, the raw material needed for chloride route has to be prepared by removing iron from ilmenite, as rutile deposits are scarce in nature. In this study, the iron oxide present in ilmenite was reduced for different times and temperatures using coconut pith which is an agrowaste available in large quantities in Kerala. Pith has lowS, P and ash contents and has a moderate calorific value. The reduction process was studied using chemical analysis, SEM, X-ray and EPMA. Reduction of iron oxide in the ilmenite reaches a maximum at 3 to 4 h at 1040°C containing 84% of iron in the metallic state and the rest in the ferrous state. Treatment with 20% hydrochloric acid at 80°C for 1 h with stirring, leaches out most of the iron from the reduced ilmenite leaving behind only 2% iron. The SEM and X-ray data show the gradual reduction and structural changes taking place during reduction of ilmenite with coconut pith.