Rapid synthesis of ZrB2B4C composite powders via induction heating and its effect on the properties of Al2O3SiCC castables

ZrB2B4C composite powders (ZBCs) were synthesized by B4C reduction method via induction heating in an argon atmosphere using ZrO2, B4C, and pitch powder as raw materials. The effect of ZBCs addition on the performance of Al2O3SiCC (ASC) castables was evaluated by considering their mechanical properties, oxidation resistance, and slag resistance. The results showed that high-purity ZBCs with a median particle diameter of 3.07 μm could be easily obtained by induction heating at 1400 °C for 30 min. The bulk density, cold modulus of rupture (CMOR), hot modulus of rupture (HMOR), and anti-oxidation performance of ASC castables can be synchronously improved via the introduction of synthesized ZBCs. The isothermal oxidation test at 1450 °C revealed that the oxidation behavior of the samples with ZBCs addition follows a parabolic law. The slag corrosion resistance of ASC castables was slightly impaired, but the slag penetration resistance was obviously enhanced due to improved oxidation resistance.