A castable refractory composition comprises: a cement-free refractory particulate composition; and a sol binder; wherein the castable refractory composition comprises a metaphosphate-providing component and/or an orthophosphate-providing component.

A refractory composition and processes for manufacture are provided where the compositions possess improved refractory alkali resistance and superior handling properties. Compositions and processes for their manufacture may include a plurality of ceramic particles and a binder sintered to the particles wherein the binder includes crystalline aluminum orthophosphate distributed as the result of an in situ reaction of aluminum metaphosphate with alumina. Kits provided according to the invention provide materials for use in manufacture of a composition where the kit includes aluminum metaphosphate and a nonfacile additive.