The use of low-porosity fireclay bricks effectively blocks the penetration of molten slag and metal liquid due to their low-porosity structure. For instance, in aluminum electrolysis cells, their resistance to sodium erosion is increased by over 50% compared to regular bricks.
Clay brick is a “veteran” refractory material in aluminum electrolysis cells, often laid at the bottom and sidewalls of the cell. It is made by high-temperature firing of clay and, thanks to its excellent refractory properties, can maintain a stable physical form in high-temperature environments without easily softening or deforming. At the same time, it possesses a certain level of erosion resistance, enabling it to withstand chemical corrosion from some electrolytes and thus providing a basic protective barrier for the electrolysis cell. However, with the advancement of electrolysis technology, the limitations of clay bricks in certain performance aspects have gradually become apparent. Nonetheless, their cost advantage still allows them to hold a place in some applications.
