ABSTRACT
This research investigated the sintering characteristics of sinter blends produced from Agbaja iron ore concentrate of high phosphorus (P2O5 = 1.50 - 2.14%) and low silica content and Itakpe iron ore concentrate of low phosphorus (P = 0.03%) and high silica in order to produce fluxed sinters suitable for pig iron production. The ores (Agbaja and Itakpe) were concentrated using conventional beneficiation techniques and then blended in the ratios of 10-70% Agbaja and 90-30% Itakpe. The blends were mixed with coke breeze, limestone and moisture to produce fluxed sinters. The physical and chemical characteristics of the produced sinters vis-a-visa abrasion resistance, shatter index, tumbler index, reducibility, reduction decrepitating and chemical composition were determined. The results obtained revealed that both the physical and chemical properties of the produced sinters compared favourably with existing blast furnace specifications for sinters. However, the sinter with 10% Agbaja and 90% Itakpe possessed physical and chemical properties that are close to the specified properties of sinter for use in the blast furnace for Pig iron production. Therefore, sinter blend with 10% Agbaja and 90% Itakpe iron concentrates can be recommended for use in blast furnace for the production of pig iron.