Abstract: The invention relates to a method of producing refractory compositions and more particularly to a method for producing castable refractory compositions which comprises combining appropriate quantities of bulk particulate refractory aggregates substantially without pre-mixing; separately adding to the aggregate system an appropriate quantity of a pre-blended binder composition; mixing the aggregate system and the pre-blended binder composition in a mixer; and discharging the refractory composition from the mixer.

Abstract: Ceramic binder for forming and processing ceramic ware, comprising a sol-gel of a mixture of highly charged metal hydroxy cations and one or more low charged metal hydroxy cations, which are able to form an aqueous sol.

Abstract: A foamable lining composition to be used as an expendable lining over a permanent refractory lining in a molten metal handling vessel, e.g. a tundish, comprises a particulate refractory filler material, a binder, a foaming agent and water. Calcined magnesite is the preferred refractory filler material and the binder is preferably an acid phosphate or acid sulphate. The water is included in the composition in an amount of from 5 to 15 per cent by weight.

Abstract: The present invention comprises rice hull ash which is pelletized subsequent to its admixture with a bentonite clay binder. A preferred product according to the present invention is pelletized rice hull ash which contains both bentonite clay and organic cornstarch binders. The bentonite clay contains approximately 58-68% SiO.sub.2, 18-21% Al.sub.2 O.sub.3, 2.5-2.8% Fe.sub.2 O.sub.3 /FeO, 2.5-3.2% MgO, 0.1-1.0% Cao, 1.5-2.7% Na.sub.2 O, 0.2-0.45% K.sub.2 O, and 4.5-9.0% free H.sub.2 O. Insulator pellets according to the present invention, when placed atop molten steel in ladles or tundishes, insulate well and do not smoke or generate unwanted dust.

Abstract: Gunning mixes and other magnesia-based refractory compositions are disclosed which include up about to 10% by weight sulfamic acid as a binder. Sulfamic acid reacts readily with periclase grain and, when employed with boric acid and ceramic sintering aids forms an excellent binder system.