CO-2
- Testing and improving physical properties; such as thermal shock, spalling, hot strength, toughness, creep, thermal conductivity and MOE
- Quality control and analytical tools used to improve refractory product quality, consistency, performance, etc
- Evaluating and controlling monolithic materials property changes that occur during storage, mixing, installation, drying and firing; including those caused by composition and additives
- Monitoring process variables and/or material properties related to refractory failure during service
- Microstructure analysis or phase changes as it relates to material performance (using SEM, TEM, cathodoluminescence, high-temperature confocal laser microscopy, optical microscopy, or other analytical tools)
- Advances in refractory manufacture, installation and/or system repair/maintenance