Gas-based direct reduction of manganese ore pellets

A novel solid-state manganese ore reduction strategy is currently under investigation as a less energy intensive, lower-cost alternative to current processing options. This solid-state process, based on existing Direct Reduced Iron technology, employs a CH4- and H2 containing atmosphere to reduce Mn ore pellets. While it is established that CH4 is a suitable reductant for Mn ore powders, the reduction of industrially relevant Mn ore pellets is poorly understood. Therefore, this work presents a preliminary study on the reduction of Mn ore pellets in a CH4- and H2-containing atmosphere.