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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 the properties of zirconia. 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 be stable at room temperature, preventing volume changes upon heating and greatly expanding the applications of zirconia.
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