refractory etymology

Etymology:

The term "refractory" derives from the Latin word "refringere," meaning "to break" or "to resist."

Meaning:

In geology, a refractory material is a substance that is resistant to heat and chemical erosion. It can withstand high temperatures without melting, decomposing, or significantly changing its structure.

Origin:

The use of the term "refractory" in the geological sense dates back to the late 18th century. In 1774, the French chemist Antoine Lavoisier conducted experiments on fire-resistant materials. He classified them into two categories:

  • Refractory metals: Metals that could withstand high temperatures without oxidizing (e.g., gold, platinum)
  • Refractory materials: Non-metallic substances that could withstand high temperatures without melting or decomposing (e.g., fireclay, magnesia)

Over time, the term "refractory" has been primarily used to refer to non-metallic substances with high thermal and chemical resistance. These materials are commonly used in high-temperature applications, such as furnaces, kilns, and crucibles.

Some common refractory materials include:

  • Fireclay (kaolin)
  • Silica (quartz)
  • Magnesia (MgO)
  • Alumina (Al2O3)
  • Zirconia (ZrO2)
  • Silicon carbide (SiC)

refractory relate terms

  • refraction

    Etymology The word refraction originates from the Latin word refringere which mean

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    Etymology Latin recalcitrās kicking back stubborn re back against calx

  • stubborn

    Etymology The word stubborn comes from the Middle English word stubborne which in tu

  • disobedient

    Etymology The word disobedient is derived from the Middle English word disobedient w

  • frog march

    Etymology The term frog march is believed to have originated in the 17th century It is

  • restraint

    Etymology Old French restraint 13th century from Latin restrictiō restrictiōnis

  • rebel

    Etymology The word rebel derives from the Latin verb rebellāre meaning to rise ag

  • liner

    Etymology The word liner has its origins in the Old French word lignes which means

  • diversity

    Etymology The word diversity comes from the Latin word diversitas meaning differen

  • keep

    Etymology Derived from the Middle English word kepen meaning to hold or guard Me

  • Titan

    Etymology French Titane Greek Τιτάν Titán Meaning Giant or powerful b