Influence of the conditions of mechanical activation of the mixture of ilmenite and carbon on the pigment preparation

The effect of mechanical activation of bag filter wastes in titanium production (ilmenite concentrate) with carbon on the production of titanium dioxide pigment was studied. Results of mechanochemical liberation, reduction and sulphuric acid enrichment of ilmenite concentrate are reported. It is shown that mechanical activation significantly changes the morphology of particles of produced pigment compared to the standard. The conditions of mechanical activation correlate with the specific surface values of samples and sizes of ilmenite crystallites.

► The effect of mechanical activation of ilmenite on the specific surface S and size D of crystallites was studied. ► S was found to be proportional to the number N of balls (S ~ N), and D ~ N2R2 were R is the radius of balls. ► The flat shape of produced pigment particles prevents their sedimentation. ► The flat shape of particles promotes higher adhesion when they are used in paints.