New generation of ecological silicate binders.

Abstract: The article presents the structural, technological and ecological features of the new type of silicate binders. The binders are used in foundry practice to produce moulds and cores, especially for castings made from non-ferrous metal alloys. The nanostructure of binders was described, i.e. the size and decay of nanoparticles of the diffuse binder phase. The technological research showed the beneficial mechanical properties of moulding sands prepared with these binders at both ambient temperature and at temperatures of up to 900oC (the residual strength), compared to the moulding sands with traditional silicate binders. The residual strength of moulding sands with the new binder decreased by about 50% at 800oC. The results of comparative chromatography of the thermal emission rate of harmful gases and odours were examined for moulding sands with new silicate binders and with organic binders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]