Analysis of microcracks and mineral changes in low-cement refractory concrete after firing at various temperatures

Abstract

The generation and development of microcracks on the surface of low-cement refractory concrete samples as well as mineralogical changes after firing at various temperatures were investigated. It was found that the number of microcracks [cracks/cm²] and their specific length [mm/cm²] depended on the microsilica content in concrete. The results of X-ray analysis on concrete samples after firing at 1300°C showed the influence of microsilica content on anorthite and amorphous phase formation in the concrete.