Analysis of the Quasi-Static and Dynamic Fracture of the Silica Refractory Using the Mesoscale Discrete Element Modelling.

Computer modelling is a key tool in the optimisation and development of ceramic refractories utilised as insulation in high-temperature industrial furnaces and reactors. The paper is devoted to the mesoscale computer modelling of silica refractories using the method of homogeneously deformable discrete elements. Approaches to determine the local mechanical properties of the constituents from the global experimental failure parameters and respective crack trajectories are considered.