Processing and characterization of alumina–mullite ceramics

Processing of mullite and alumina based refractory ceramic by unidirectional dry pressing, from two mixtures that include silica sand, pure alumina (PA) and recycled alumina (RA) is described. The samples were sintered up to 1600 °C to study the refractory properties. The fired properties of materials (firing shrinkage, water absorption, density, flexural strength, refractoriness, and SEM microstructure) were evaluated. Promising refractories materials based on mullite and alumina were obtained.