The Modeling and Optimization of Titanium Dioxide Extraction, Case study: The Slag Sample of Blast Furnace

In this research work, the application of the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and the Central Composite Design (CCD) techniques for modeling and optimization of some of the operating variables on the titanium dioxide extraction were studied. This study was performed, using sodium hydroxide roasting and sulfuric acid leaching. Four main parameters, i.e., leaching temperature, time, liquid to solid ratio, and the concentration of acid, were changed during the experiments. The two parameters of the stirring rate (250 rpm), and the feed size (d80= 106 micrometers) were considered to be constant. Based on the findings, several empirical equations were modeled for the titanium dioxide extraction with the above mentioned parameters. The empirical equations were then individually optimized by employing the quadratic programming to maximize the extraction within the experimental range. In conclusion, the optimum conditions were accordingly obtained at 85°C, 235 minutes, liquid to solid ratio of 15, and the acid concentration of 2.4 M, in which the maximum TiO2 extraction of 81.32% was achieved.