In the production of iron ore pellets, binding additives are used, in particular, bentonite clays. At present, instead of alkaline bentonite clays used before, the alkaline-earth bentonite clays modified by soda ash are used, supplied from abroad. There is a whole number of bentonite clays deposits in Russia and Ukraine having reserves of the raw material accounting hundreds of million tons, which are not used in the industry because of absence of planned and proper studies of their applicability for pellets production. The analysis of chemical composition carried out and requirements to rheological characteristics of bentonite clays used in the iron ore pellets production at steel-works of Russia and Ukraine determined. Indicators of swelling and water absorption of mono-ionic forms of bentonite of some deposits in water of various hardness presented. Quality of pellets with bentonites, having different exchange complex when using technical water of various hardness considered. Analysis of mineralogical and chemical compositions, as well as value and content of exchange complex of alkaline-earth bentonite clays of Cherkassk deposition, Ukraine, accomplished. The deposition has the largest reserves of such clays in CIS. It was shown, that clays suitable for pellets production, are located near the earth surface. Comparative analysis of strength indicators of pellets, produced with bentonite application with alkaline and alkaline-earth complexes, carried out. It was shown, that despite the low swelling of alkaline-earth bentonites, the quality of pellets, produced with those bentonites is sometimes a little lower, but under definite conditions does not yield to the quality of pellets with alkaline bentonites at the same their consumption.
PRODUCTION OF IRON ORE PELLETS BY UTILIZATION OF SUNFLOWER HUSKS