The research and development (R&D) wing of the Kerala Minerals and Metals Limited (KMML) has developed a technique to separate iron from iron oxide and the first load of iron sinters produced has been sent to Kalliyath TMT.
A byproduct generated during the production of titanium dioxide, five tonnes of iron sinters have been sent from the company during the first phase. They have been produced in the company’s existing plant on an experimental basis after successfully testing the product.
The sinters can be used instead of iron ore to make TMT bars. The flag-off of the first load has been done by Managing Director J. Chandrabose and the company has applied for a patent for the technology.
The iron oxide produced as part of titanium dioxide production process is now stored in large ponds. The company currently has huge quantities of slurry stored in lined ponds and the accumulation of hazardous waste can be prevented through the process. With the implementation of the new technology, the KMML will be able to solve the environmental problems caused by ion oxide while generating revenue for the company.
