Degradation of magnesia-chromite refractory in ZnO-containing ferrous calcium silicate slags

To assess the impact of changes in slag type on the degradation of refractory linings of secondary copper smelters, the degradation behavior of direct-bonded and fused grain magnesia–chromite refractories in ZnO-containing ferrous calcium silicate slags was studied via dynamic refractory finger and static refractory crucible tests at 1200 °C under Ar atmosphere. The effect of ZnO level in the slag and refractory type on the degradation behavior was determined. A combination of microstructural and compositional characterizations of tested refractories, and thermodynamic calculations leads to comprehensive understanding of the degradation mechanism of the refractories. Based on the degradation mechanism, conclusions can be given about the prediction of lifetime of refractory lining when the slag type changes from fayalite-based to ferrous calcium silicate-based slags for secondary copper smelting.