What does refractory mean in mineralogy ?
Refractory : definition
In the mineral industry, this term applies to materials resistant to high temperatures, a property that makes them indispensable players in the steel and metallurgical industry. Usually used in the form of refractory bricks, these materials line areas subject to high temperature rises (inner walls of blast furnaces and other industrial furnaces, tapholes, etc...) in order to protect structures that are more sensitive to high temperatures.
The materials are essentially products with a high alumina or magnesia content. Andalusite (SiAl2O5), once transformed into mullite by calcination, is the essential mineral of this refractory industry. Aluminous bauxites, olivine or zircon sands and kyanite are more sporadically used.
The materials are essentially products with a high alumina or magnesia content. Andalusite (SiAl2O5), once transformed into mullite by calcination, is the essential mineral of this refractory industry. Aluminous bauxites, olivine or zircon sands and kyanite are more sporadically used.