posted 10 years ago
Howdy folks... first post here.
I have a rocket stove build in mind and I'm currently just researching materials; specifically, I'm working on the core and riser. Experimental is "okay" for now, as this will be an outdoor build but I really don't like doing things over if i can help it.
I've seen a recipe turn up several times for refractory cement, both on here, and on sites for metal casting/kiln building, etc...
I'm sure this topic has been beat to death, but I've seen several conflicting posts so I thought I'd dedicate a thread to it.
Here is the mix:
1.5 parts Portland Cement
2 parts silica sand
1.5 parts perlite
2 parts fireclay
Everything in this recipe I can find cheap and local.
...that said, I see many posts which warn zealously against using portland cement anywhere in your build. Many use "refractory cement" for the mix. I actually wouldn't be surprised if "refractory cement" simply is a premix of cement, sand, and fireclay.
Perhaps in the bonding process while curing the heat resistance necessary is created?
Anyway, I thought I'd post this to see if any have had success with it. IF it works, it'll be a much cheaper alternative to using insulating firebrick for the whole build.
Thoughts?