Improved explosion resistance of low cement refractory castables using drying agents

Abstract

Low cement castables (LCCs) containing different types of drying agents (polymer fibers and EMSIL-DRY™) have been studied both in laboratory- and industrial-scale. Our study shows that the type of drying agent has a profound impact on the flow/workability of the fresh castables and that EMSIL-DRY™ ensures the best workability. The thermal behavior of 300 mm cubes (approximately 80 kg) was studied using a unique macro-thermo-balance (macro-TGA). Compared to the polymer fibers, EMSIL-DRY™ reduces the temperature level for maximum dewatering rate and will effectively help prevent explosions during heat-up. The LCC with EMSIL-DRY™ showed excellent explosion resistance, as demonstrated by the production of a perfect 400 kg block that was fired to 850◦C at a rate of 75◦C/h.