What is Zirconium Oxide?

The highest mechanical strength and fracture toughness

Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2), also known as Zirconia, boasts the highest mechanical strength and fracture toughness compared to alternative fine grained ceramics. It exists in its monoclinic polymorph at room temperature and used in applications including ceramics and refractories due to its excellent thermal insulation properties.

Properties of Zirconium Oxide

The properties of Zirconium Oxide powder is dependent upon the process route used to produce the material. Chemically derived it’s consistent, highly homogeneous and the textural properties carefully controlled. Particle size, surface area and purity are tailored to meet the designated application.

It is also a highly versatile material when combined with other elements. Addition of Yttrium Oxide, Magnesium Oxide, Aluminium Oxide and others can enhance the mechanical, optical or thermal properties of the ceramics produced.

What is Zirconium Oxide used for?

Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2), also known as Zirconia, is used in a wide variety of applications across a number of markets.

Zirconium Oxide is also a highly versatile material when combined with other elements. A small addition of yttrium oxide unlocks the tetragonal polymorph and further enhances the mechanical properties and form materials suitable for advanced ceramic applications. Further addition of yttrium oxide yields the cubic polymorph and leads to function ceramics which conduct oxygen ions and used in sensors along with cubic zirconia for jewellery.

Luxfer MEL Technologies offers a wide range of Zirconium Oxides and Yttria Stabilized Zirconium Oxides.

We’d love to hear about your applications and discuss how our materials can offer you a solution.