On the classification of ancient slags by microstructure examination

Authors

• Erik Tholander
• Stig Blomgren

Abstract

In this paper we will point at the possibilities of using the microstructure of iron-slags for the determination of a possible main type of production process used in early iron-making on a site, where production is indicated by slag remains in suitable amounts. For that purpose, four main types of furnace are presumed and shortly explained with regard to significant process details in heating, ore reduction and slag formation. The resulting slag microstructure is discussed for three of them. The leading structure element for identification is found to be micrograins of metallic iron. Concluding comments on the reliability of the method in comparison to certain calculation methods used by other workers are given in the final part.