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Refractories are inorganic materials capable of withstanding very high temperature without undergoing softening , deformation in shape. These have capability to resist corrosive and abrasive action of molten metal and alloys , chemicals and gases at high operating temperature. These are used as structural materials in construction of high temperature furnaces and kilns which are used in chemical industries. These are mainly used for storing heat in regenerators.

A GOOD REFRACTORIES SHOULD POSSES FOLLOWING CONDITION:1. They have high resistance to changes in physical , chemical and mechanical properties under high temperature. 2. They show chemical inertness. 3. Have good thermal strength. 4. Shows resistance to flame and molten metals. 5. They shows mechanical and structural strength to withstand overlying load at severe operating conditions. 6. There should be no heat loss in them.

SELECTION OF REFRACTORIES IS BASED ON FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:1. Working temperature to which refractory is exposed. 2. Nature of material coming into contact with refractories. 3. Load applied on it and nature of chemical reactions that take place under various condition.

REFRACTORIES ARE BROADLY CLASSIFIED BASED ON THEIR CHEMICAL NATURE INTO THREE CATEGORIES:1. ACIDIC REFRACTORIES:- These are made from acidic materials such silica or alumina. They can withstand acidic environment but are attacked by basic materials e.g. fire clay refractories. 2. BASIC REFRACTORIES:- These are made from basic materials such as calcium oxide or magnesium oxide. These are attacked by acidic environment and chemicals e.g. magnesite , dolomite.

3. NEUTRAL REFRACTORIES:- These are capable of withstanding slightly acidic as well as basic environment. These are made from neutral materials such as carbon, graphite , chromite , silicon carbide etc.