The effect of SiO2 additions on barium aluminate cement formation and properties

Barium aluminate cements have been synthesized by barium carbonate, alumina, kaolin and colloidal silica as starting materials. The effects of the source of SiO2 and of firing temperature on phase formation and physical properties of the fired cements have been studied. Cement samples were characterized using XRD, SEM, EDX. The setting time and heat of hydration of cements were also evaluated. The barium aluminate cements were mixed in castables. Cold crushing strengths evaluated, and values compared to those obtained using calcium aluminate cement (Secar 71). Mixtures of BaCO3 and Al2O3 were targeted to produce BaAl2O4; which had fast set time, expansive behavior and lower strength compared to samples with SiO2 additions. SiO2 additions, regardless of source, resulted in BaAl2Si2O8 (celsian) formation. The prepared samples had short setting times and higher mechanical properties in comparison with standard calcium aluminate cement.