Zirconia (1/4#)

Introduction to the Chemical Properties and Functions of Zirconia

Zirconia, also known as zirconium dioxide (chemical formula: ZrO2), is the main oxide of zirconium. Under normal conditions, it is a white, odorless, tasteless powder that is insoluble in water.

Properties of Zirconia

Pure zirconia is a high-grade refractory material with a melting point of approximately 2900°C. It can increase the high-temperature viscosity of glaze and expand the temperature range of viscosity change, exhibiting good thermal stability. At a content of 2%-3%, it improves the glaze's crack resistance. Due to its high chemical inertness, it enhances the chemical stability and acid/alkali resistance of the glaze and can also act as an opacifier. In architectural ceramic glazes, zircon is often used, generally at 8%-12%. It is also a main raw material for "underglaze white." Zirconia serves as a good auxiliary agent for yellowish-green pigments; pure zirconia is required for high-quality vanadium yellow pigments.

Pure zirconia is a white solid; impurities can cause it to appear gray or pale yellow. Adding colorants can produce various other colors. Pure zirconia has a molecular weight of 123.22, a theoretical density of 5.89 g/cm³, and a melting point of 2715°C. It usually contains a small amount of hafnium oxide, which is difficult to separate but does not significantly affect zirconia's properties. Zirconia exists in three crystalline forms: monoclinic, tetragonal, and cubic phases. At room temperature, zirconia only appears in the monoclinic phase. Heating to around 1100°C transforms it into the tetragonal phase, and higher temperatures lead to the cubic phase. The significant volume change during the monoclinic-to-tetragonal phase transition, and the reverse change upon cooling, can easily cause product cracking, limiting the application of pure zirconia at high temperatures. However, adding stabilizers allows the tetragonal phase to remain stable at room temperature, preventing volume changes upon heating and greatly expanding zirconia's applications.

Shandong Zhi Cheng Industrial Co., Ltd. has earned widespread praise from domestic and international customers for its high-quality products, competitive prices, and excellent service, with products currently exported to countries such as South Korea and Japan, as well as various provinces and cities within China. Innovation, exploration, and development are our themes. We adhere to the business principles of "new technology, new products, high quality, excellent service, and integrity" to cooperate sincerely with domestic and international users to create brilliance together.