Preparation and characterization of glass–ceramic foams with waste quartz sand and coal gangue in different proportions

Glass–ceramic foams were fabricated at a relatively low temperature by incorporating coal gangue, waste quartz sand and sintering additives in different proportions. Sintering and the foaming behavior of the foams were studied using thermal, X-ray techniques and morphological characterization, followed with physical and mechanical properties measurements. The effects of coal gangue content on sintering and foaming behavior, phase compositions, microstructural, physical and mechanical properties of the produced materials were also investigated. The results showed that the glass–ceramic foam with 40 % coal gangue exhibited its optimal performances with the lowest porosity and adequate strength. Combined with low cost, excellent comprehensive performances and environment-friendly characteristic, therefore, the new development in preparation of glass–ceramic foams will promise a wide application in energy-saving insulation material for nonbearing wall.