Recent Advances in Sintering Granulation Technology for Efficient Utilization of Refractory Ores in China: Addressing the Depletion of High-Quality Iron Ore

With the increasing depletion of high-quality iron ore resources, the efficient utilization of refractory ores has become a critical challenge in the iron and steel industry. This review systematically examines recent advances in sintering granulation technologies aimed at enhancing the processing of such ores. The study focuses on two main categories: conventional intensification methods, including moisture optimization, binder application, and mixer improvements, and novel sintering processes such as press-briquetting, pelletized sintering, split-stream granulation, composite agglomeration (CAP), and pre-granulation sintering. Key findings indicate that while conventional techniques can partially improve granulation uniformity and sintering bed permeability, they remain inadequate for handling high proportions of ultrafine ores or secondary iron-bearing materials. In contrast, innovative processes like CAP and pre-granulation sintering demonstrate superior adaptability and efficiency by integrating pelletizing and sintering mechanisms, enabling the treatment of complex ores and industrial residues. The adoption of advanced intensification-granulation sintering technologies offers a viable pathway toward sustainable ironmaking, providing the steel industry with essential tools to mitigate raw material constraints, lower production costs, and support green transformation. Future efforts should prioritize intelligent control, process integration, and the scaling of emerging techniques to maximize their industrial potential.