Оptimization of charge composition for coke production with spent anode material and evaluation of agglomerate properties

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to optimize the batch composition for coke production by introducing spent anode material and to evaluate the properties of the resulting agglomerates. Experimental batches of coke with different levels of spent anode material residue were investigated, and the resulting agglomerates were subjected to comprehensive testing. The investigations included determination of chemical composition, spectroscopic analysis, and phase characterization of the coke using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.  It was found that samples with 20-30% spent anode material have an optimal ratio of aromatic and oxygen-containing groups, demonstrating a high degree of carbonization while maintaining structural strength. With an increase in the proportion of spent anode material to 40%, there is a decrease in the number of binding functional groups, which can worsen the strength characteristics. Laboratory agglomeration tests using modified coke were carried out. The obtained agglomerates showed satisfactory technological and chemical properties. The yield of the suitable agglomerate was 72.4–73.5 %, which confirms the effectiveness of using coke with 20–30 % spent anode material for metallurgical sintering processes. The results indicate that the inclusion of anode residue in the batch composition can enhance certain operational parameters of coke, such as structural integrity and resistance to degradation, while maintaining acceptable levels of strength and reactivity. These findings provide a basis for the industrial application of spent anode material in coke production, ensuring both resource efficiency and potential cost savings.