Reduction of Fe2O3 with hydrogen

The reduction of Fe2O3 with hydrogen was studied. The thermodynamic analysis of the process implied that temperature-programmed reduction of the oxide should proceed in three steps, i.e. Fe2O3 → Fe3O4 → “FeO” → Fe, at XH2O/XH2XH2O/XH2 ratio over 0.35, but in two steps, i.e. Fe2O3 → Fe3O4 → Fe, below that value. The idea was verified by TPR and XRD studies. Generally, the examinations confirmed the suggestions. The reduction is three-step reaction at high XH2O/XH2XH2O/XH2 ratio, but two-step reaction at low that ratio. Additionally, it was revealed that at extremely low XH2O/XH2XH2O/XH2 ratio the TP reduction is a one-step reaction, i.e. Fe2O3 → Fe.

Graphical abstractThe reduction of Fe2O3 in hydrogen proceeds:•in two steps, Fe2O3 → Fe3O4 → Fe, in dry 5.8% H2 + Ar mixture, but•in three steps, Fe2O3 → Fe3O4 → “FeO” → Fe, in wet 5.8% H2 + Ar + H2O mixture. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (101 K)Download as PowerPoint slide