In-situ observation of the behaviour of non-metallic inclusions at different interfaces in the system steel-slag-refractory

The system steel-slag-refractory and reactions of non-metallic inclusions at its interfaces are decisive in numerous metallurgical processes. In order to obtain the desired steel cleanness level, a detailed understanding of the occurring interactions is needed. This study focuses on the in-situ observation of different reactions of non-metallic inclusions in steel and slag. For this purpose a Confocal Scanning Laser Microscope attached to a high temperature furnace is applied which enables the visualization of metallurgical phenomena at steelmaking temperatures up to 1700 °C. Two different examples are discussed: First, the agglomeration of different inclusion types in a Ca-treated steel is described and corresponding attraction forces are calculated. Secondly, the dissolution of Al 2 O 3 and MgOAl 2 O 3 in two slags of the system CaO-Al 2 O 3 -MgO-SiO 2 is examined, including the evaluation of the governing dissolution mechanism. Finally, an outlook on further experimental possibilities is given.