Zirconia
(ZrO2)
is a unique advanced ceramic. Products manufactured from zirconia powder
exhibit superior mechanical properties such as high strength and flexibility.
Heat insulating properties and oxygen-ion conductivity indicate zirconia
has potential for use in a wide variety of applications - everything
from telecommunications to the new energy of the future and environmentally
beneficial products.
Zirconia offers
chemical and corrosion resistance to temperatures well above the melting
point of Alumina. In its pure form crystal structure changes limit mechanical
applications, however stabilized Zirconias produced by addition of Calcium,
Magnesium or Ytrium Oxides can produce very high strength, hardness
and particularly toughness. In addition the material has low thermal
conductivity and is an ionic conductor above 600°C. This has lead to
applications in oxygen sensors and high temperature fuel cells.
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