LAUSR

Abstract In this work, the effect of Zn(OH)2 on properties of corundum based castables bonded with calcium aluminate cement (CAC) was investigated. The phase composition and microstructure of castable matrixes containing Zn(OH)2 after firing 800 °C, 1100 °C and 1550 °C were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectra, respectively. The results indicate that a small amount of Zn(OH)2 can dramatically improve the medium temperature strength of castables because the generation of zinc aluminate spinel increases the ceramic bonding of castables. In addition, the addition of Zn(OH)2 also improves the volume stability of CAC-bonded castables due to the enhanced formation of pores from Zn(OH)2 decomposition in castables.