Optimization of the Binder System for Improving Workability and Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Plastic Refractories

Abstract

Plastic refractory properties were studied by synthesizing two different binders in the laboratory. Liquid phosphate binders from different sources, a sol-gel bonding system, organic plasticizers, water retention agent and deflocculating agent were optimally mixed using different techniques for binder synthesis. The stability of the thixotropic behaviour of the binders varied with different compositions and techniques. Plastic refractory products were manufactured in the laboratory with an identical raw material composition and particle size distribution. Plastic refractory products with different binders were characterized based on the workability index of green mass, bulk density, cold crushing strength, modulus of rupture and permanent linear change of fired samples at 850 °C and 1200 °C. Phase and micro-structure analysis was in line with the thermo-mechanical properties of end products. The plastic refractory prepared with Binder B-1 was found to be optimal in terms of workability and thermo-mechanical properties.