Investigation of Reusing Copper Converter Slag Residue with the Flash Sintering Method

Abstract

For the first time, flash sintering (FS), an economical, fast, and environmentally friendly process, was conducted and suggested for reusing copper converter slag (CCS) to produce multi-phase ceramics under the 12.5 V/mm, 25 V/mm, 50 V/mm, and 75 V/mm. The effect of the electric field used for FS on grain growth, hardness, and density of CSS was investigated. FS was faster and employed at lower temperatures (431.3°C) compared with the conventional processes (1250°C). The increment of applied voltage during FS significantly improved the density of the CCS samples along with impinged grain growth. FS, completed in approximately 30–60 s after the current draw, is observed through the sample. Besides, the superior hardness and density values of the CCS pellets are acquired when the electric field is 50 V/mm. FS also triggers the formation of new phases, which is not the case for conventional sintering. Overall, FS can be used as a green processing by reducing sintering time and temperature in this materials system. © 2023, The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.