Significance and Use The oxidation of silicon carbide
refractories at elevated temperatures is an important
consideration in the application of these refractories. The
product of oxidation is amorphous silica or cristobalite,
depending upon the temperature at which oxidation takes place.
This oxide formation is associated with expansion and
degradation of strength. The quantity of water vapor in the
atmosphere greatly affects the rate of oxidation. The test,
which creates and measures the expansion, is suitable for
guidance in product development and relative comparison in
application work where oxidation potential is of concern. The
variability of the test is such that it is not recommended for
use as a referee test. 1.1 This test method covers the
evaluation of the oxidation resistance of silicon carbide
refractories at elevated temperatures in an atmosphere of steam.
The steam is used to accelerate the test. Oxidation resistance
is the ability of the silicon carbide (SiC) in the refractory to
resist conver