Abstract: A refractory metal substrate suitable for use in contact with an oxygen- or nitrogen-containing environment at a temperature greater than the oxidation or mitridation acceleration temperature of the substrate is disclosed. The refractory metal substrate comprises a refractory metal comprised of molybdenum and having a coating comprised of chromium metal. In an alternative embodiment the refractory metal can be an alloy comprised of in weight percent: from about 10 to about 20 chromium, from about 0 to about 5 alumina (Al.sub.2 O.sub.3), from about 0 to about 1 yttria (Y.sub.2 O.sub.3), from about 0 to about 0.5 titanium, from about 0 to about 0.1 zirconium, the balance being essentially molybdenum to make 100% of the composition; and, optionally having a coating of chromium metal.

Abstract: A refractory metal substrate suitable for use in contact with molten glass is coated with a chromium oxide outer coating and a molybdenum disilicide buffer coating to protect the substrate from oxidation at elevated temperatures, particularly during start up of an electric furnace.