Reaction Sintered Zircon-Dolomite Compositions for Insulating Refractories

Abstract

Insulating refractories are used to increase the thermal/fuel efficiency of high temperature processes. Higher degree of porosity and pores with uniform size and even distribution increases the insulating properties of a refractory material. Zircon and Dolomite are used as raw materials for preparing of insulating bricks because their mixture, when sintered results in making of a highly porous material with good strength. Also, since no combustible material (pore formers) is used, the process of manufacturing do not results in formation of any harmful gases and thus is environment friendly. Densification studies like Apparent Porosity and Bulk Density of the fired samples was done. Cold Crushing Strength was also determined. Phase analysis was done by X-Ray Diffraction method to get an idea about various phases of Ca-Si-Zr-Mg formed after sintering. Microstructural analysis on the fractured surfaces was done by Scanning Electron Microscope to observe the pore morphology and distribution.