Effect of addition of TiO2 on reaction sintered MgO–Al2O3 spinels

Three different spinel compositions with MgO:Al2O3 molar ratios 2:1, 1:1 and 1:2 were studied using TiO2 as an additive up to 2 wt.%. Solid state reaction sintering technique was employed for all the compositions in the temperature range of 1550–1650°C. Attrition milling was done for the reduction of particle size. Sintered products were characterised in terms of densification and shrinkage studies, phase analysis, strength evaluation both at ambient temperature and at elevated temperature, strength retention after different number of thermal cycles at 1000°C, quantitative elemental analysis and microstructural studies.