New insulating and refractory mineral foam: Structure and mechanical properties

Abstract : The present work focuses on the structure and mechanical properties of a new type of refractory thermal insulation mineral foam. Studies of the structure of solid foam enabled visualisation of the impact of the formulation and manufacturing processes on the final microstructure. Solid foam structures were investigated using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray tomography making it possible to reveal and quantify primary porosity, wall porosity, and microstructure, and to better understand the effects of the manufacturing steps. Mechanical compression and bending properties were evaluated on solid and ceramic foams and compared with the properties of commercial insulating mineral materials. At equivalent density, ceramic foam exhibited higher crushing strength than solid foam or commercial samples, with no modification of its microstructure.