Enhanced performance of Al2O3–SiC–C castables via in-situ formation of multi-reinforced phases by introducing surface treated composite metal powders

Al₂O₃–SiC–C (ASC) castables were prepared with bauxite and silicon carbide as major raw materials and introducing large amount of surface treated composite metal powders (STCMPs) as antioxidant. Their comprehensive properties were greatly improved attributed to the in situ formation of multi-reinforced phases including carbide silicon whiskers and mullite fibers in the matrix. Compared with the corresponding samples without STCMPs, the high temperature modulus of rupture of those with 6 wt% STCMPs calcined in air increased by 47.3% and with 8 wt% STCMPs calcined in reducing atmosphere increased by 220%. The retained CMOR ratio of the sample with 6 wt% STCMPs calcined in reducing atmosphere was high up to 50% after 5 cycles thermal shocks. Moreover, the oxidation index and slag erosion index of samples with 6 wt% STCMPs were decreased by 45% and 74%. This work provides a new perspective for the preparation of ASC castables with excellent high-temperature performance.