Refractories are part and parcel of modern civilisation. It is the most essential ingredient of all high temperature processes such as producing metals, glass etc. Significant developments have taken place in recent decades which have somewhat revolutionised the industry including the products and applications. In shaped refractories, preformed shapes - in machine shaped or cast forms - are used in significant amounts other than typical bricks. The unshaped refractories, commonly known as monolithic refractories, have taken a significant leap both in terms of materials, products and applications. In this paper, most of the various types of refractories will be dealt with respect to their compositions, manufacturing and applications. A special separate section is dedicated towards the development and use of aluminia-magnesia spinel high fired steel ladle well blocks and in situ cast steel ladle bottoms, since it has provided a significant improvement in the life of the ladle, particularly the well block and the bottom. This paper will deal with the science and technology of refractories only and not the commercial aspects.
