Effect of Particle Size Distribution and Chemical Composition on Properties of Magnesia Chromite Bricks

The present study was undertaken to improve the quality and increase the life time of magnesia-chromite refractory bricks used in the copper and lead industries. The results show that a decrease in the amount of large chromite particles in the formulation improves the thermomechanical properties and also reduces the slag penetration in the bricks. In addition it was also observed that the use of co-clinker decreases the open porosity in the bricks and thereby improves the mechanical properties. It was also shown that the use of around 4 percent iron oxide has beneficial effect on the bricks properties. Microstructural evaluation on the bricks shows increased formation of spinel phase and more direct bonding in the improved bricks.