Bessemer steelmaking — refractory lining for the acidic process In the acidic Bessemer (acid converter) process, the converter is lined with:

Introduction / Context:
The Bessemer process historically used two lining chemistries: acidic and basic. The choice of refractory lining determines which impurities can be removed effectively during the blow.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Acidic Bessemer is intended for low-phosphorus pig irons.
• Refractory compatibility with slag chemistry is essential.

Concept / Approach:
Acid converters employ acid refractories, notably silica bricks, which are compatible with acid slags but cannot remove phosphorus or sulfur efficiently. Basic Bessemer (Thomas process) uses basic linings such as burnt dolomite or magnesia, enabling removal of phosphorus via basic slag. Therefore, identifying the lining type directly answers the question.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recognise “acidic” process → requires acid refractory.Standard acid refractory used: silica bricks.Select silica bricks as the correct lining.

Verification / Alternative check:
Historical steelmaking references list silica as the refractory for acid Bessemer converters and dolomite/magnesia for basic (Thomas) converters.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Tar-bonded burnt dolomite: typical of basic (not acid) practice.
• Either (a) or (b): incorrect because lining chemistry must match slag chemistry.
• Magnesia–chromite bricks: basic refractories used in basic steelmaking, not acid Bessemer.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming refractory choice is interchangeable; acid/basic compatibility with slag chemistry is fundamental.

Final Answer:
silica bricks