The main difference between zirconium mullite brick and sintered zirconium corundum brick (i.e. sintered AZS brick) lies in their chemical composition, microstructure, and the resulting performance differences. Here are some key differences between the two:

Chemical composition:

Zirconium mullite brick is mainly composed of zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) and mullite (3Al₂O₃·2SiO₂), and may also include other additives to adjust the properties. This combination provides good thermal shock resistance and a certain degree of erosion resistance.

Sintered zirconium corundum brick is mainly composed of zirconium oxide and corundum (α-Al₂O₃), and sometimes a small amount of silicate glass phase is added to promote sintering. This combination gives extremely high temperature resistance, erosion resistance and chemical stability.

Microstructure:

The microstructure of zirconium mullite brick usually shows a network composed of zirconium mullite crystals and zirconium oxide particles, which is conducive to thermal shock resistance.

The structure of sintered zirconium corundum bricks tends to form a continuous network of corundum with zirconium oxide particles interspersed in it, which focuses more on providing high refractoriness and erosion resistance.

Performance differences:

Thermal shock resistance: Zirconium mullite bricks generally have better thermal shock resistance, which means that they are more resistant to thermal stress when the temperature changes rapidly and reduce the generation of cracks.

Erosion resistance: Sintered zirconium corundum bricks perform better in chemical erosion resistance and high temperature resistance, especially in contact with alkaline or harsh chemical environments.

Mechanical strength: Sintered zirconium corundum bricks generally have higher mechanical strength, including compressive and flexural strength, suitable for heavier loads and mechanical wear.

Application areas:

Zirconium mullite bricks are more suitable for applications with higher requirements for thermal shock stability, such as some parts of glass kilns, specific furnace linings in ceramics and chemical industries.

Sintered zirconium corundum bricks are more suitable for extremely high temperature and highly corrosive environments, such as the melting pool of advanced glass melting furnaces, the lining of certain metallurgical furnaces, etc.

In general, the brick you choose depends on the specific application requirements, such as operating temperature, degree of chemical attack, and whether it needs to experience frequent temperature changes.