Expanded graphite fortified magnesia-carbon refractories : fabrication and properties

Abstract

In this study, a different approach has been followed to reduce the carbon content as well as to increase the thermo mechanical properties and oxidation resistance of MgO-C refractories. In the present work, EG was used as carbon source to partially replace flaky graphite in MgO–C refractories in order to study the effect of its addition on the microstructure and mechanical and thermo-mechanical properties. MgO-C refractory batches fortified with various fractions of EG were prepared on a pilot plant scale, and their thermo-mechanical properties were studied. Bulk density, apparent porosity, cold crushing strength (of tempered as well as coked specimens), modulus of elasticity, hot modulus of rupture, oxidation resistance, and thermal shock resistance were the properties studied across a series of batches. The new compositions exhibited excellent cold and hot strength, thermal shock resistance and oxidation resistance. Some of the results are not reported in this e-thesis for intellectual proprietary issues.