Mullite

Mullite is an aluminosilicate compound with the specific formula 3Al₂O₃ · 2SiO₃ and an alumina content of approximately 70 percent. It has a melting point of 1,850° C (3,360° F). Various clays are mixed with bauxite in order to achieve this composition. Mullite refractories are solidified by sintering in electric furnaces at high temperatures. They are the most stable of the aluminosilicate refractories and have excellent resistance to high-temperature loading. Mullite bricks are used in blast-furnace stoves and in the forehearth roofs of glass-melting furnaces.