Iron and Steel

Lime Removes Contaminants

The production of steel requires lime to form slag and protect the steel from oxidation. Lime also binds contaminants present in raw iron, such as sulfur and phosphorus. A general rule of thumb is that approximately 50 kilograms of burnt lime are needed to produce one ton of steel.

Dolomite Protects Furnace Linings

To protect the refractory lining in the steel furnace, converter, or ladle furnace—and thereby extend its lifespan—dolomite is also required.

Lime is also used in the furnaces to maintain an alkaline environment, which is essential for promoting chemical reactions and stabilizing the molten metal during the process.

Neutralization of Acids

For industries that use acids in their processes, lime plays a neutralizing role. Lime helps restore the pH level in acidic liquids, ultimately enabling purification before they are returned to nature.