Mixed binder systems for agglomerates

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A novel mixed binder system for agglomerates is disclosed. The agglomerates are suitable for use in the production of metals and alloys in a carbothermic reduction process such as the production of silicon in a direct arc furnace by the carbothermic reduction of silica. The agglomerates prepared using this mixed binder system have high physical strength over a wide temperature range. The mixed binder system consists essentially of a primary binder selected from the group consisting of coal tar pitch asphalt, and petroleum pitch and a secondary binder selected from the group consisting of lignosulfonate salts carbohydrates, and silicates.