Mechanical and Physical Properties of Mg-Clay Refractory Mortar
Magnesium-clay refractory mortars are highly durable, heat resistant materials that are used in the manufacture of glass or ceramics. The properties of these materials are important in determining the efficiency and performance of the product they are used in. In order to understand the mechanical and physical properties of Mg-Clay refractory mortars, it is necessary to consider the porosity, toughness, hardness and thermal shock resistance of the material.
Porosity
Porosity is defined as the amount of air or gas trapped within a material which is measured as a fraction of the total volume of the material. The porosity of a Mg-Clay refractory mortar depends on the ratio of magnesium oxide and clay. Magnesium oxide is known to contribute to a low porosity rate, while clay is known to contribute to a high porosity rate. In general, a higher proportion of magnesium oxide will produce a more dense material with a lower porosity rate and vice versa.
Toughness
Toughness is the ability of a material to be hardened or softened when subjected to the rigors of thermal or mechanical loading. In Mg-Clay refractory mortars, toughness is independent of the proportion of magnesium oxide and clay, and is determined by the mixture used in the production process. Generally, materials with a higher proportion of magnesium oxide exhibit greater toughness as compared to materials with a lower proportion.
Hardness
The hardness of a Mg-Clay refractory mortar is a measure of its resistance to scratching, cutting and abrasion. This is mainly determined by the ratio of magnesium oxide and clay. Magnesium oxide is known to contribute to a high hardness value, while clay is known to contribute to a lower hardness value. In general, a higher proportion of magnesium oxide will produce a harder material with a higher hardness value and vice versa.
Thermal Shock Resistance
Thermal shock resistance is the ability of a material to withstand changes in temperature without crack formation or deformation. This is determined by the ratio of magnesium oxide and clay as well as other additives. Magnesium oxide is known to contribute to a higher thermal shock resistance, while clay is known to contribute to a lower thermal shock resistance. In general, a higher proportion of magnesium oxide will produce a more resilient material that is better able to withstand sudden changes in temperature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the mechanical and physical properties of a Mg-Clay refractory mortar depend on the porosity, toughness, hardness and thermal shock resistance of the material are determined by the ratio of magnesium oxide and clay. Magnesium oxide is known to contribute to a lower porosity rate, a higher toughness value, a higher hardness value and a higher thermal shock resistance. On the other hand, clay is known to contribute to a higher porosity rate, a lower toughness value, a lower hardness value and a lower thermal shock resistance. In general, a higher proportion of magnesium oxide will produce a more dense material with higher toughness and hardness values and a higher thermal shock resistance.
