Why is black or brown flake 98% V2O5 used in steelmaking and catalytic processes?
November 24, 2025
Why is black or brown flake 98% V2O5 used in steelmaking and catalytic processes?
Black or brown flake 98% V2O5 is a commercial-grade form of vanadium pentoxide widely used in both steelmaking and catalytic applications due to its effective performance, ease of handling, and cost-efficiency. The color variation (black or brown) typically depends on slight differences in impurity levels or calcination methods but generally reflects a 98% purity grade, which is adequate for many industrial uses.In steelmaking, this flake form of V2O5 is used to introduce vanadium into molten steel, where it enhances strength, hardness, and wear resistance by forming fine carbides and nitrides. It is commonly applied in the production of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels, tool steels, and spring steels. The flake structure allows for better melting behavior and uniform distribution in the steel bath, improving the consistency of the final product.For catalytic applications, such as sulfuric acid production or industrial emission controls, 98% V2O5 flake acts as an oxidizing agent that facilitates key chemical reactions. The black or brown flake offers good thermal stability and surface reactivity, making it suitable for use in fixed-bed or fluidized-bed reactors under moderate to high-temperature conditions.Its robust flake form also ensures easier storage, transportation, and dosing in industrial settings. Suppliers often provide this grade with assay guarantees, particle size options, and quality certifications, making it a practical choice for large-scale steel and chemical operations that require reliable vanadium sources without the premium cost of ultra-high-purity variants.