Small footprint aluminosilicate matrix: refractory hybrid materials

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of alumina, titania, boron nitride and silicon carbide additions on low energy (typical cure < 90oC) alkali reactive aluminosilicate matrix material properties as potential small environmental footprint refractory materials. The structure - property relationships of the aluminosilicate matrix - refractory hybrid materials were characterized for thermal performance. Electron microscopy complemented with X-ray diffraction and FTIR revealed the different reaction mechanisms occurring within the hybrid aluminosilicate matrix - refractory systems. Alumina and silicon carbide additions were found to react with the aluminosilicate matrix to a greater extent than boron nitride and titania. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis indicate that thermal behaviour is predominantly dictated by water loss from the aluminosilicate matrix, with refractory additions playing a minor role. The reactivity of the refractory addition towards the aluminosilicate matrix influenced sample microstructure and thermal performance