To withstand alkalis there are magnesite bricks. Firebricks are not good insulators. It makes a thin, light wall that saves fuel because it heats quickly. A separate layer of insulating material backs up other kinds of firebrick. Refractory mortar binds firebricks together.
Additional support comes from metal anchors projecting from the metal casing.
Special coatings give bricks extra protection from slags and dust-laden gases. Plastic or castable mixes are used for repairs or special shapes. Listing from Electric Library , a pay service. No relevant pictures or maps found. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition Copyright 2000, Columbia University Press.