Drying behavior of hydratable alumina-bonded refractory castables

The drying behavior of a hydratable alumina-bonded (HAB) refractory castable was evaluated by thermogravimetric tests and compared with an ultra-low cement composition (CAC). The key properties of monolithic refractory dry-out performance, such as fluid permeability and mechanical strength, were also determined. The results showed significant differences among the drying profiles ascribed to the distinct hydrated binding phases, which affect the castables’ physical properties to a differing extent. The consequences of these features on the explosive spalling tendencies of the compositions are discussed.