MgAl2O4 spinel as an effective ceramic bonding in a MgO–CaZrO3 refractory

The influence of MgAl2O4 spinel addition as a ceramic bonding in the MgO–CaZrO3 refractory was established by the evaluation of physical and microstructural characteristics in terms of density, porosity, crystalline phases, phase distribution and morphology. X-ray diffraction analyses and scanning electron microscopy with microanalysis have been used. The mechanical behavior has been evaluated in terms of cold crushing strength at room temperature and modulus of rupture at 25 and 1260 °C. Static and dynamic resistances tested by chemical attack of clinker raw constituents have been carried out at 1450 °C. Results showed that thermo-mechanical properties significantly improved with increasing the content of spinel. Microstructural analysis revealed that spinel phase aided to develop a strong bond between MgO and CaZrO3 refractory aggregates. Finally, the refractory bodies exhibited a good thermal stability and an excellent chemical resistance against the clinker raw material.