| Abstract: | Ferric oxide is one of the key factors affecting both the microstructure and the properties of CaO-MgO-SiO_2-based ceramics. Research on this effect is significant in the utilization of iron-rich solid wastes in ceramics. Ceramic samples with various Fe_2O_3 contents(0 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt%) were prepared and the corresponding physical properties and microstructure were studied. The results indicated that Fe_2O_3 not only played a fluxing role, but also promoted the formation of crystals. Ceramics with 5 wt% of Fe_2O_3 addition attained the best mechanical properties with a flexural strength of 132.9 MPa. Iron ions were dissolved into diopside, consequently causing phase transformation from diopside and protoenstatite to augite, thereby contributing to the enhancement of its properties. An excess amount of Fe_2O_3 addition(10 wt% or more) resulted in deteriorated properties due to the generation of an excess volume of liquid and the formation of high-porosity structures within ceramics. |
