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Zirconium Oxide[2]

Updated: 2026-09-11

Overview

Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2), also known as zirconia, is a white crystalline ceramic material with exceptional thermal and chemical stability. It exists in three crystal phases (monoclinic, tetragonal, and cubic) with the tetragonal phase stabilized by dopants like yttria for technical applications. As one of the most refractory materials known, it maintains structural integrity at temperatures up to 2400°C. Its unique combination of properties has made it indispensable in advanced industrial applications ranging from aerospace to biomedical implants.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Zirconium Oxide exhibits remarkable mechanical properties including high fracture toughness (8-10 MPa·m½) and flexural strength (900-1200 MPa) when properly stabilized. Its thermal expansion coefficient (10-11 × 10−6/K) closely matches that of certain metals, enabling metal-ceramic joining. The material is chemically inert to most acids and alkalis except hydrofluoric acid and concentrated sulfuric acid at elevated temperatures. Its high dielectric constant (ε ≈ 25) and ionic conductivity (in doped forms) make it valuable for electrochemical applications. The band gap of 5-7 eV contributes to its excellent insulating properties.

Main Applications

In industrial settings, zirconia serves as thermal barrier coatings for gas turbine blades, oxygen sensors in automotive exhaust systems, and refractory linings for high-temperature furnaces. The medical field utilizes its biocompatibility for dental crowns (CAD/CAM milled) and orthopedic implants. The electronics industry employs it in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and piezoelectric devices. Recent developments include its use in ceramic knives, abrasive materials, and as a catalyst support. The stabilized cubic phase finds application in jewelry as a diamond simulant (cubic zirconia).

Safety and Storage

While zirconium oxide powder is generally considered non-toxic, prolonged inhalation of fine particles may cause respiratory irritation. Appropriate PPE including NIOSH-approved dust masks should be used during handling. The material is non-flammable and chemically stable under normal conditions. For storage, maintain in original packaging or airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption. Avoid contamination with reducing agents that might react at high temperatures. Bulk quantities should be stored on pallets in dry, well-ventilated areas away from incompatible materials.

B2B Procurement Guide

Industrial buyers should specify critical parameters including purity level (typically 99% for general ceramics, 99.9%+ for electronic grades), phase composition (monoclinic vs. stabilized), particle size distribution (from nanometers to microns), and dopant type/percentage. Key suppliers include Saint-Gobain, Tosoh Corporation, and Daiichi Kigenso Kagaku Kogyo. Pricing varies significantly based on technical specifications—standard technical grade powder ranges $20-50/kg while high-purity nano-sized powder can exceed $100/kg. Minimum order quantities typically start at 25kg for standard grades.

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