The role of TiO2 in the densification of low cement Al2O3–MgO spinel castable

Fused alumina (70%) and dead burnt magnesia (30%) of different grain sizes were used to synthesize Al2O3–MgO spinel castable. Calcium aluminate (75% Al2O3) cement was used as binder of the castable. Densification behaviour of such castables in the presence of TiO2 was assessed through the measurement of parameters like, bulk density, volume shrinkage, apparent porosity, specific gravity and microstructure evaluation by SEM and XRD studies. It was observed that TiO2 exhibited a positive influence on the densification behaviour of these compacts.