Design of aluminosilicate refractory matrices in the context of climate change: sustainability approach

The work proposes a cold-setting approach for designing and producing aluminosilicate refractories that save energy and emit low levels of CO2. This process is based on shrinkage-free theory and the management of the expansion coefficient of refractory oxides from natural raw materials. Refractory composites can be designed to withstand high temperatures and thermal gradients. Refractory matrices based on Al-rich kalsilite, mullite, tialite and mullite-cordierite are designed with alternative cold-setting processes to achieve the desired porosity for dense and porous refractories. The formation and consolidation mechanisms of cold-setting refractory matrices are presented, demonstrating the role of colloidal silica and alumina in partially replacing an alkali-based colloidal solution. The optimum microstructure was accounted for the improvement of refractoriness, shrinkage and thermal resistance.