Sustainable silica- and aluminosilicate-based refractories for coke ovens and steelmaking: A review

Refractory materials are essential for safe and efficient high-temperature operation in iron, steel, and coke industries. Silica- and aluminosilicate-based refractories used in coke ovens and metallurgical units must withstand thermal shock, alkali attack, and spalling. This review discusses the role of microstructure, phase stability, and porosity in controlling strength and corrosion resistance, emphasizing structure-property relationships under service conditions. Recent developments in secondary and bio-based feedstocks, including rice husk ash, fly ash, and sawdust, are presented as strategies to reduce CO2 footprint and raw material use while maintaining performance. However, industrial adoption is limited by feedstock variability, scale-up challenges, and uncertainty in long-term behavior. Life cycle assessment is highlighted as a key tool for guiding sustainable design and material selection. Overall, sustainable refractories with improved durability and reduced environmental impact offer a promising route for the decarbonization of steel and coke production.