Improvements in the mechanical properties and oxidation resistance of MgO-C refractories with the addition of nano-Y2O3 powder

Nano-Y₂O₃ powder was added to the composition of MgO-C refractory to improve its mechanical properties and oxidation resistance. The changes in bulk density (BD), flexural strength (FS), cold crushing strength (CCS), and oxidation rate were studied with the phase and microstructural developments. The BD, FS and CCS of the MgO-C refractories were increased by adding the nano-Y₂O₃ powder, which contributed to the dispersion of the nano-Y₂O₃ in the gaps between differently sized MgO particles. Meanwhile, the oxidation rate of the MgO-C refractory added with the nano-Y₂O₃ was decreased owing to a dense oxidised layer was formed. The dense layer hindered the inward diffusion of oxygen and protected the refractory from oxidation.