Method of preparing a synthetic rutile from a titaniferous slag containing magnesium values

摘要

A synthetic rutile is prepared from a titaniferous slag, typically containing at least about 1.0 weight percent magnesium oxide and at least some portion of its titanium values as Ti2O3, by a method comprising contacting the slag with chlorine gas at a temperature between about 400 DEG C-850 DEG C such that the magnesium oxide and chlorine gas react to form magnesium chloride, and then removing the magnesium chloride from the slag, typically by washing the slag with water. In one embodiment, the synthetic rutile can be further upgraded by subjecting it to either a caustic or acid leaching treatment.