Evolution of c-ZrN nanopowders in low-carbon MgO–C refractories and their properties

Abstract To solve the problem of the high cost of ZrN as a raw material, nanoscale c-ZrN powders were synthesized by molten-salt nitridation at 1100 °C and introduced into low-carbon MgO–C refractories. The effect of ZrN content on the microstructure and properties of the refractories was investigated. The results indicated that the addition of ZrN significantly promoted the reaction, and there was a certain degree of chemical bonding between ZrN and the formed ceramic phases. As the content of ZrN increased, the formation of more ceramic phases was promoted, especially the formation of a larger amount and larger size of flake-like Mg2SiO4, which greatly improved the mechanical properties of the MgO–C refractories. Finally, the mechanism of ZrN in the MgO–C refractories was clarified.