Analysis of the properties of heat insulation materials based on Tatar deposit vermiculite

Development of a new lining material with high chemical and deformation resistance based on vermiculite is described. Properties of the objects obtained are provided that are not surpassed by overseas analogs. This achievement is due to the use of a rational combination of raw material properties and technology regime parameters. In efficiency, material based on vermiculite may replace diatomite materials used traditionally. Use of objects based on vermiculite, having a density lower by a factor of three and lower thermal conductivity by a factor of six instead of traditional heat insulation material, i.e. chamotte, opens the possibility of a reduction in material content. The higher deformation resistance of the material promotes an increase in electrolyzer service life. Therefore, objects based on vermiculite may be used successfully for heat insulation not only in non-ferrous metallurgy installations, but also in thermal power engineering equipment, and in the construction of objects for industrial and domestic purposes. Translated from Novye Ogneupory, No. 3, pp. 5 – 10, March 2009.