DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjet.2026.v14i06.004

Pages: 313-324

Various operational practices are currently employed in steelmaking to extend the service life of BOF converter refractory linings. Consequently, understanding interface behavior within the slag-refractory system is crucial for assessing how evolving slag phases impact lining protection. Since slag foaming effectively shields the refractory up to the trunnion zone, it is essential to gather data on the dynamic evolution of these phases and their influence on physical properties under operational conditions. Surface-active species present in the slag affect foam stability. Thermodynamic simulations using FactSage 8.1 provide key insights into the evolution of solid and liquid phases during foaming. When correlated with physical properties, such as viscosity, surface tension, and foaming index values derived from experimental techniques and theoretical calculations, these results offer a robust approximation of operational conditions. This paper also includes comprehensive pre- and post-foaming structural characterization using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM+EDS) carried out on samples from different foaming stages. The information obtained provides a deeper understanding of slag evolution during refractory protection practices, enabling the improvement of foam behavior and efficiency.