The Effect of Zirconium Disilicide (ZrSi₂) Additions on the Carbon Oxidation Behavior of Alumina/Graphite Refractory Materials

Abstract

Carbon oxidation is a main industrial problem for Alumina/Graphite Submerged Entry Nozzles (SEN) during pre-heating. Thus, the effect of ZrSi₂ antioxidants and the coexistence of antioxidant additive and (4B₂O₃·BaO) glass powder on carbon oxidation were investigated at simulated non-isothermal heating conditions in a controlled atmosphere. Also, the effect of ZrSi₂ antioxidants on carbon oxidation was investigated at isothermal temperatures at 1473 K and 1773 K. The specimens' weight loss and temperature were plotted versus time and compared to each others. The thickness of the oxide areas were measured and examined using XRD, FEG-SEM and EDS. The coexistence of 8 wt% ZrSi₂ and 15 wt% (4B₂O₃·BaO) glass powder of the total alumina/graphite base refractory materials, presented the most effective resistance to carbon oxidation. The 121% volume expansion due to the Zircon formation during heating and filling up the open pores by (4B₂O₃·BaO) glaze during green body sintering led to an excellent carbon oxidation resistance.