Characterisation of interfacial phenomena in metal-slag reactions

During reaction between metal droplets and slag, spontaneous emulsification has been observed. These phenomena have a significant effect on the kinetics of the reactions since they increase the interfacial area. In certain cases, the increase in interfacial area can exceed 300% of the original value. In the case of an Fe-Al droplet reacting with CaO-SiO2-Al2O3 slag, the composition and distribution of aluminum and silicon are important in analyzing the kinetics of the reaction. Energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX) has been used for the investigation of the Al and Si distribution in recovered metal droplets. A 'wall effect' and cavities were observed in some of the droplets. The wall effect maybe significant in explaining the existence of surface tension gradients that result in emulsification of the droplets.