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It is important to stress that each process is unique &
generates a resultant zirconia that is likewise, unique. As a consequence, each
zirconia will perform differently in a given application from zirconia. It is
necessary to evaluate different zirconias to determine which is the appropriate
one for your application.
Zirconia can exist as three different,
well-defined polymorphs; the monoclinic, tetragonal, and cubic phases. The
monoclinic phase is the natural room temperature form and is stable up to about
1170C (2140F). At this temperature it transforms into the tetragonal phase,
which is then stable up to around 2370C (4300F). At this temperature it is
transformed to the cubic phase and exists up to the melting point of zirconia
2880C (4855F).
Because of this property, zirconia is an advanced
material that has found its way into a wide variety of end-uses &
applications. These have included high temperature refractories, electronics,
technical ceramic components, color pigments, thermal spray coatings, and
many more. Zirconias have been found in industries ranging from glass
production to jet engine manufacture.
Monoclinic zirconia has played an
important role as a constituent for ceramic colors and electronic components.
It has also been used as an additive to enhance the properties of other oxide
refractories by promoting sintering.
It is particularly advantageous
when added to high-fired magnesia bodies and contributes to abrasive
characteristics when added with alumina. These materials have been generally
used for refractory applications such as ceramic brick, foam, or wool. They can
also be considered for use as crucibles or filters since they are resistant to
attack by most molten metals. |
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