Neutral phosphate binder to enhance the shelf life of plastic refractory mixes
2024-09-19 , Europe Hall

Plastic storable masses are essential materials in refractory applications due to their convenient storage and handling characteristics. They can be shaped without a casting formwork which makes them ideal for custom applications and repairs.
Plastic mixes frequently contain a phosphate source like mono aluminium phosphate solution as a binder instead of water. This enhances the refractoriness under load, gives good abrasion resistance, higher slag resistance and better adherence to spent refractories.
One of the issues with phosphate bonded plastic refractories is their limited shelf life of around three (3) months. We present a newly developed phosphate binder, which increases the shelf life for plastic mixes significantly.
This study compares the plasticity over time and analyses the typical physical properties like density and cold crushing strength at different ranges of temperature.

Simon Horn has been manager for innovation and application development at Budenheim for more than 10 years with experience in working with both domestic and global refractory manufacturers. He's experienced in both shaped and monolithic refractories with a focus on special binders and additives that offer not only performance but also sustainable advantages.