Reduction of Firing Temperature by Utilization of Secondary Materials for the Synthesis of Forsterite Ceramics

Abstract

The main aim of this research was to investigate the effect of the addition of coal fly ash as a secondary waste material on the synthesis and properties of forsterite ceramics. The utilization of fly ash as a raw material, which contains flux oxides, reduce the necessary firing temperature for the synthesis of forsterite ceramics in comparison with forsterite ceramics synthetized from high purity or industrial materials, while preserving its refractory properties. The results revealed that forsterite was synthesized as a major crystalline phase in all samples. The optimal firing temperature for obtaining good physico-mechanical parameters was found to be between 1400-1600°C for high purity or industrial materials, while mixtures containing fly ash could achieve similar parameters at lower firing temperatures between 1200-1300°C. The decrease in refractoriness was found to be within acceptable limits for utilization as a refractory material. These findings demonstrate the potential for cost reduction and energy savings through the use of secondary waste materials and reduced firing temperature in the synthesis of forsterite ceramics.