What is Zirconia Ceramic?
Zirconia (ZrO₂) is an advanced structural ceramic with a unique transformation toughening mechanism. When a crack tries to propagate, stress triggers a phase transformation (tetragonal → monoclinic) producing 3–5% volume expansion that compresses and arrests the crack — a self-healing mechanism unmatched by any other ceramic.
With a melting point of 2,715°C and thermal expansion close to steel, zirconia is uniquely suited for ceramic-to-metal bonded assemblies. Its thermal conductivity is only 1/10th that of metals, providing excellent insulation.
Key Properties
| Property | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Melting Point | 2,715°C | Pure ZrO₂ ~2,900°C |
| Density | 5.6–6.1 g/cm³ | Y-TZP: ~6.05 |
| Flexural Strength | 950–1,500 MPa | Y-TZP exceeds 1,000 MPa |
| Fracture Toughness | 10–15 MPa·m¹/² | Highest among all ceramics |
| Thermal Conductivity | 1.6–2.03 W/(m·K) | 1/10th of metals — excellent insulator |
| Thermal Expansion | 10.3 × 10⁻⁶/°C | Close to steel — ideal for metal bonding |
| Biocompatibility | Excellent | ISO 13356 certified |
Zirconia Grades We Produce
Y-PSZ / Y-TZP (Yttria Stabilized)
Most widely used structural grade. 2–3 mol% Y₂O₃. Best combination of strength and toughness. Sintering at 1,400–1,500°C.
Mg-PSZ (Magnesia Stabilized)
Requires higher sintering (1,700–1,800°C) but delivers superior high-temperature creep resistance. Stable in 600–800°C range. Best for: high-temp structural parts, aerospace components.
Ce-TZP (Ceria Stabilized)
Superior resistance to low-temperature degradation (hydrothermal aging). Lower cost. Best for: ZTA composites, wet environment wear parts.
CSZ (Calcia Stabilized)
High ionic conductivity at elevated temperatures. Standard for oxygen sensors, SOFC, and oxygen pumps.
Stabilizer Comparison
| Factor | Y-TZP | Mg-PSZ | Ce-TZP | CSZ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sintering Temp | 1400–1500°C | 1700–1800°C | Medium | Medium |
| Strength | >1000 MPa | Medium | Lower | Lower |
| Aging Resistance | Moderate | Good | Excellent | — |
| High-Temp Performance | Moderate | Excellent | Moderate | Good |
| Cost | Higher | Medium | Lower | Lowest |
| Primary Use | Dental, bearings | High-temp structure | Toughening agent | Oxygen sensors |
Sintering Parameters
| Parameter | Recommended | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 1,500–1,550°C optimal | Max density and strength |
| Heating Rate | 200°C/hr optimal | Slower = more uniform grain structure |
| Hold Time | 2–4 hrs at peak | Standard: 1,550°C / 2–4h |
| Cooling Rate | 1–5°C/min | Prevents cracking and warping |
Available Product Forms
Zirconia vs Alumina
| Factor | Choose Zirconia | Choose Alumina |
|---|---|---|
| Primary need | Impact resistance | Electrical insulation, cost |
| Toughness | 10–15 MPa·m¹/² | 3–4 |
| Hardness | 12–13 GPa | 15–17 GPa |
| Max temp | ~1,000°C | ~1,700°C |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
Need both toughness and hardness? Consider ZTA composite.
Need Zirconia Ceramic Parts?
Send your drawings or specs to sales@metalmaterialsforsale.com — response within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
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