Comprehensive review of the corrosion behavior of magnesia–based refractories by molten steel slag

Abstract

Magnesia–based refractories, known for their excellent resistance to slag corrosion and high–temperature stability, are extensively utilized in the iron– and steel–making process. This review delves into the interactions between molten slag and magnesia–based refractories, including magnesium oxide (MgO), magnesia–chrome (MgO–Cr₂O₃), magnesia–zirconia (MgO–ZrO₂), magnesia–calcia (MgO–CaO), and magnesia–carbon (MgO–C) refractories, highlighting the challenges faced by the metallurgical industry. The analysis indicates that high density of MgO–based refractories is crucial for enhancing their resistance to slag corrosion. The incorporation of suitable additives can further improve this resistance in several ways: increasing the viscosity of the slag at the interface, forming a protective layer on the surface of refractory, reducing slag wettability, and minimizing MgO concentration gradients between the solid and liquid phases. Furthermore, the application of an external electric field represents an innovative approach to further augmenting the slag corrosion resistance of magnesia–based refractories. The comprehensive analysis offers critical insights and strategies to researchers, with the goal of optimizing magnesia–based refractory performance and promoting the development of high–temperature industries.