Effect of curing time on the properties of CAC bonded refractory castables

This work involved an investigation of the influence of the Curing time on the properties of ultra-low cement high-alumina refractory castables cured at 10 degreesC. The hydration level of the composition was determined through thermogravimetric tests and then compared to theoretical estimations. The samples' mechanical strength and airflow permeability were strongly affected by the curing time, varying significantly in the period between 2 h and 30 days. The consequences of these changes on the drying behavior of castables are discussed. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.